Path Performance Optimization of Complex Flight Mechanics Models Using Reduced-Order Modeling
R. Reggie Johanes (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
F. Oliviero (TU Delft - Flight Performance and Propulsion)
Carmine Varriale (TU Delft - Flight Performance and Propulsion)
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Abstract
Path performance optimization has proven to be a powerful tool in solving a wide variety of optimal control problems in the aerospace field. However, the numerical complexity of such methodologies often prevents the possibility to optimize the performance of high-fidelity flight mechanics models characterized by coupled, non-linear, and/or high-order dynamic and aero-propulsive models. This research has explored the impact of reduced-order modeling on the optimal path performance obtainable with surrogates of the high-fidelity flight mechanics model. The developed methodology revolves around the creation of different reduced-order models that retain the characteristics of a full-order flight mechanics model to different degrees of fidelity, while being manageable by an optimal control solver. The methodology has been applied to obtain minimum-time landing trajectories for the UNIFIER19 C7A, a hybrid-electric aircraft featuring over-the-wing distributed propulsion, previously developed under the UNIFIER19 project. Results show that the reduced-order models can be used to generate flyable trajectories, as verified by tracking the resulting landing approach paths using the base high-fidelity model. On the other hand, the value of the objective function differs widely depending on the reduced-order model used, indicating that the modeling choice has a significant impact on the optimal performance prediction.