Simulation study demonstrates robust takeoff and landing control in eVTOL vehicles, indicating stable flight performance across changing operating conditions.
Key Points
To design and evaluate a robust control framework for the takeoff, hovering, and landing phases of an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle.
Synthesized an SVD-guided Linear Quadratic Regulator with output feedback (LQRy) on an augmented plant with target zeros across multiple linearized flight operating points.
Combined the LQRy design with a gain-scheduling strategy to facilitate smooth transitions between varying operating conditions.
Evaluated performance using frequency-domain robustness analysis with inertia matrix uncertainties and dynamic nonlinear flight simulations.
Altitude response achieved 0% overshoot during both takeoff and landing in nonlinear flight simulations.
Nonlinear simulations demonstrated takeoff rise time of 1.63 s and steady-state time of 2.57 s, alongside landing rise time of 1.73 s and steady-state time of 2.56 s.
Linear model tests fulfilled all predefined overshoot, rise time, and steady-state time criteria while attitude responses remained within specified design tolerances.