Flight Path Optimization with Optimal Control Method

TL;DR

This paper applies Constrained Finite Time Optimal Control to aircraft flight path optimization, aiming to improve flight time and fuel efficiency through dynamic modeling and scenario validation.

Contribution

It introduces a CFTOC-based method for aircraft trajectory optimization, incorporating realistic dynamics and wind disturbances under simplified assumptions.

Findings

Optimized flight paths reduce fuel consumption.

Method effectively adapts to different simulated scenarios.

Provides a framework for real-time flight control optimization.

Abstract

This paper is based on a crucial issue in the aviation world: how to optimize the trajectory and controls given to the aircraft in order to optimize flight time and fuel consumption. This study aims to provide elements of a response to this problem and to define, under certain simplifying assumptions, an optimal response, using Constrained Finite Time Optimal Control(CFTOC). The first step is to define the dynamic model of the aircraft in accordance with the controllable inputs and wind disturbances. Then we will identify a precise objective in terms of optimization and implement an optimization program to solve it under the circumstances of simulated real flight situation. Finally, the optimization result is validated and discussed by different scenarios.