A Glidepath Tracking Algorithm for Autolanding of a UAV

Abstract

In this paper, a glidepath tracking algorithm of a UAV was proposed and the performance was analyzed. The glidepath tracking strategy was implemented using precision longitudinal flight control law. A performance output- based design method was proposed for smooth transition to the new state minimizing saturation of the control effectors. By comparison with several LQ servo design methods such as Bryson's general rule and frequency domain matching method, the suggested design shows fast and smooth responses through numerical simulation. Furthermore, the performance of the strategy was investigated through the touch down point(TDP) error analysis with regard to atmospheric disturbance. It was verified that the proposed glidepath tracking strategy can be successfully applied to the practical autolanding of UAV systems.