Calculations, simulations with JSBSim and write up with Marimo notebooks
Marimo notebooks available in the Flight Dynamics Calcs repo.
Can the A4 really roll at 720 deg/s or is it a tall tale? Using some aerodynamic data published by NASA let’s take a look.
Comparing fighter roll rates based on published aerodynamic data.
Flight path angle for carrier approaches based on wind over deck, approach speed and meatball angle.
Examples of processing flight test data collected during a level acceleration test to determine climb performance.
Calculate the set of trim points for an aircraft over a range of airspeeds and range of flight path angles. The required thrust and AoA is indicated for each trim point.
Review the theory of climb performance and then use JSBSim to compare the results to the theory using the excess power calculation and using JSBSim to calculate the maximum rate of climb (ROC) using it’s trim routine. Lastly compare the results to those from a paper presenting climb performance from a TECS based autopilot.
Looking at some of the options in terms of engine failure(s) during a vertical take-off of an aircraft like the Pegasus Vertical Business Jet (VBJ).
Use JSBSim to compare how varying the thrust vector angle can minimize fuel burn for a given flight condition and compare the results to the NASA report - Optimal Pitch Thrust-Vector Angle and Benefits for all Flight Regimes.
Simulate a pilot performing a rudder kick test by inputing a rudder input based on a ramp input. Aileron input is also included to maintain a steady heading sideslip (SHSS). The time histories of the control inputs and beta (sideslip angle) are plotted.
Calculate the International Standard Atmosphere (ISA) temperature, pressure, density and speed of sound at a given altitude.
Plot routine to calculate and plot the relationship between CAS, TAS and Mach number as altitude varies using the ISA.
Explanation of Equivalent Airspeed (EAS) and how it relates to IAS, CAS and TAS. The relationship is plotted as altitude varies and airspeed varies.
Comparison of different ground effect models to model the change in lift, drag and pitching moment as a function of height above ground. A 747 simulator model provided by Boeing, a generic airliner model provided by Airbus for an autoland challenge and a common JSBSim model are detailed and compared.
Maximum dynamic pressure experienced by a SpaceX rocket, the Space Shuttle and an airliner.
Maximum dynamic pressure experienced by the X-15 rocket plane during its test flights for altitude missions and speed missions.
Total Air Temperature (TAT) experienced during X-15 test flights for altitude missions and speed missions.
Trim calculation using JSBSim for inverted flight.
Calculate the set of trim points for an aircraft over a range of airspeeds and range of flight path angles. The required thrust and AoA is indicated for each trim point.
Notebooks that are still being worked on and not yet ready for prime time.