An Independent, Generic, User-Commanded, Sequential Quadratic Programming Module for Solving the Aircraft Trim Problem

Abstract

The Delft University of Technology (’TU Delft’) developed a real-time distributed system for scientific and educational purposes. Because of the high level of expertise required to learn from- and work in a real-time environment, TU Delft created a middleware layer, DUECA (Delft University Environment for Communication and Activation), and a simulation-specific addition framework: DUSIME (Delft University SIMulation Environment). A common practice is embedding the numerical optimization tool in an aircraft model and retrieving the starting conditions, referred to as the initial trim set. Setting up such an embedded tool for every aircraft model is very labor-intensive. For over 20 years, these issues have limited the overall user experience in DUECA. Hence, the research created an independent, generic, User-commanded, Sequential Quadratic Program (SQP) module capable of solving the aircraft trim problem in DUECA. The trim module works by a user selecting a desired steady-state aircraft trajectory through a Graphic User Interface (GUI) and then commands the trim module to search for the set of initial trim conditions. The advised flight trajectory found so far by minimizing the DASMAT trim problem are the straight-and-level descending, pull-up, and turning flight. The calculated initial trim sets allow the starting up of an aircraft simulation in a steady-state, stable enough such that a pilot can take over manual control.