Parachute-Payload System Flight Dynamics and Trajectory Simulation

Abstract

The work traces a general procedure for the design of a flight simulation tool still representative of the major flight physics of a parachute-payload system along decelerated trajectories. An example of limited complexity simulation models for a payload decelerated by one or more parachutes is given, including details and implementation features usually omitted as the focus of the research in this field is typically on the investigation of mission design issues, rather than addressing general implementation guidelines for the development of a reconfigurable simulation tool. The dynamics of the system are modeled through a simple multibody model that represents the expected behavior of an entry vehicle during the terminal deceleration phase. The simulators are designed according to a comprehensive vision that enforces the simplification of the coupling mechanism between the payload and the parachute, with an adequate level of physical insight still available. The results presented for a realistic case study define the sensitivity of the simulation outputs to the functional complexity of the mathematical model. Far from being an absolute address for the software designer, this paper tries to contribute to the area of interest with some technical considerations and clarifications.

Design of Fully Automatic Drone Parachute System with Temperature Compensation Mechanism for Civilian and Military Applications

“…The purpose of a parachute is to decrease speed while maintaining stability of a falling vehicle or payload. The aerodynamic and stability characteristics of the parachute are determined by its geometric features, which influence opening force and movement trajectory [43]. UAVs are subject to increasing demands and are committed to achieving maximum operational reliability.…”

“…The system of equations presented here is based on the previous works of [43][44][45][46] and is defined as follows:…”

Aeroelastic analysis of parachute deceleration systems with empirical aerodynamics

“…Regarding the apparent air mass entrained with the parachute, a widely used approximation is where k' is a constant depending on the parachute type and porosity. While the models available usually define k for fully inflated canopies (see literature 6,60,61 in terms of fabric porosity), some authors introduce a dependence on the actual shape of the inflating canopy. This can be achieved by relating M' with the included air mass and a ramping factor.…”

Numerical Formulation of Parachute Payload Decelerator System and its Animation with Moving Background

“…In these study six degree freedom rigid-body model is typically adopted. Avanzini et al study the whole process with elastic suspension system [2,9] and full degree freedom rigid parachute and payload model is built. In this paper, a twelve degree freedom elastic parachute model is established, and its trajectory will be displayed with animation.…”