March 3, 2026

From Flight Test to a Simulator Model - System Identification of the ISTAR Research Aircraft

Key Points

The implementation of a flight dynamics model enhances the design of pilot assistance systems, improving aircraft control—especially in varying conditions.
Utilizing system identification techniques, the aerodynamic model integrates seamlessly with the ISTAR simulator for efficient testing and validation.
A modular software design allows for adaptable modeling of the ISTAR aircraft's behavior, facilitating control system development and simulation.
Highlighting the successful application of a yaw controller demonstrates the aerodynamic model's effectiveness for real-world flight scenarios.

Abstract

The German Aerospace Centre (DLR) acquired a Dassault Falcon 2000LX research aircraft, designated ISTAR (In-flight Systems & Technology Airborne Research), to support research in variable stability, advanced flight control concepts, and pilot assistance systems. A high-fidelity flight dynamics model of the ISTAR is essential for the development of these systems and for simulator-based flight control testing. The model is based on an aerodynamic model identified through system identification (SysID) techniques using flight test data. The modular design of the aerodynamic modelling software enabled seamless integration of the identified model into the ISTAR simulator. This paper gives an overview of the model development process and an example for the application of the simulator model for the design and implementation of a yaw controller is presented.

From Flight Test to a Simulator Model - System Identification of the ISTAR Research Aircraft

Key Points

Abstract

Cite This Study