UAVs and Simulation: an experience on MAVs

摘要

This paper deals with a review of Micro Aerial Vehicles design and operational schematic by reporting the research activity of Politecnico di Torino concerning the MicroHawk platform. The design and the development of a basic flight simulator for educational purpose are presented. This simulator is an easy-to-use system for the analysis of maneuver response for different aircraft categories, the aircraft performances, the dynamic study and the evaluation of the aircraft flying and handling qualities. Moreover, the software implementation, including the definition of mathematical model, the visual scenario, the virtual instruments panel and the real-time data analysis graphic interface, are delineated. Finally, an intense flight activity is carried out to test the flight control system performances of the MicroHawk platform and to establish general procedures to ensure the correct operation of all subsystems. In addition to this experimental phase, an important effort is done to incorporate simulation into the autopilot tuning process so as to reduce the platform set-up time and the risk of losing the prototype.