Application of dynamical systems theory to nonlinear aircraft dynamics

Citation

Jahnke, Craig C. (1990) Application of dynamical systems theory to nonlinear aircraft dynamics. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/9KZS-XC46. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-05092007-134504

Abstract

A continuation method has been used to determine the steady states of three nonlinear aircraft models: a general aviation aircraft with a canard configuration, a generic jet fighter, and the F-14. The continuation method calculated the steady states of the aircraft as functions of the control surface deflections. Bifurcations of these steady states were determined and shown to cause instabilities which resulted in qualitative changes in the state of the aircraft. A longitudinal instability which resulted in a deep stall was determined for the general aviation aircraft. Roll-coupling and high angle of attack instabilities were determined for the generic jet fighter, and wing rock, directional divergence and high angle of attack instabilities were determined for the F-14.

Knowledge of the control surface deflections at which bifurcations occurred was used to either put limits on the control surface deflections or to program the control surface deflections such that a combination of control surface deflections at which bifurcations occur could not be attained. Simple control systems were included in the aircraft models to determine the effects of control systems on the instabilities of each aircraft. Steady spin modes were determined for each aircraft. A successful recovery technique was determined for the general aviation aircraft, but no successful recovery technique could be found for the F-14.

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