The effects of non‐linear kinematics in optimal evasion

Abstract

Abstract The effects of non‐linear kinematics on optimal evasive strategies from a pursuer guided by proportional navigation are investigated in a plane. Non‐linear analysis is mandatory since, for certain values of system parameters and initial conditions, linearized kinematic models are not valid. The investigation discloses two principles of optimal evasion. For long pursuit time, both principles are satisfied and the relatively large miss distance is almost independent of the initial conditions. Short pursuit time does not allow simultaneous satisfaction of both principles, and the two‐dimensional optimal compromise results in a reduced miss distance. The inability to satisfy both principles suggests a three‐dimensional manoeuvre perpendicular to the initial collision plane.