Model Predictive Control of Agile Projectiles

Abstract

Currently, gun-launched precision munitions have limited maneuverability to prosecute moving or defilade targets, or even greatly extend range. This paper provides a theoretical underpinning for the flight control strategy of statically unstable projectiles. The approach is to develop a high-fidelity understanding of the flight physics and include that theory in the flight control algorithm. A model predictive control algorithm is developed to achieve the maneuverability goal. Parametric variation of the inherent static stability was undertaken for an agile airframe. Six degree-of-freedom flight simulations were performed to assess the flight control algorithm. Results demonstate that stability in the yaw and roll channels even for statically unstable projectiles can be maintained over the range of airframe configurations for this study. Modest control action was necessary to achieve the required flight stability. Nomenclature D = diameter S = reference area m = mass t a I I I , ,  = moment of inertia tensor, axial moment of inertia, transverse moment of inertia