Dynamic UAS Simulation Framework for Energy and Mission Performance Optimization

Recent advancements in battery technology and their widespread use in automobiles have spurred interest in the electrification of propulsion systems for aircraft, especially UAS. This trend brings about the need to analyze various battery and hybrid technologies, and to consider their effects on aircraft performance. This paper details the development of Aeronomie, a dynamic simulation framework that has the capability to predict mission-based energy and performance metrics. High-fidelity models of aircraft dynamics (both fixed-wing, and rotorcraft), control, and powerplant dynamics are developed and integrated into a simulation platform. These models are developed as individual component models that can be compiled together using a proprietary software workflow, which facilitates complex parametric studies. In this paper, a test case scenario consisting of an ‘electrified’ Ryan-Navion is simulated, with results and insights presented. Two propellers (2-blade, and 3-blade) are used to simulate the same mission, and the powerplant results are compared to illustrate the effects of this change on aircraft dynamics and powerplant performance. Various uses of the mission data for the purposes of design and mission optimization are also presented.