System simulation approach for helicopter autopilot

Abstract

This paper discusses an approach for system simulation of an autopilot system designed for a Bell helicopter model. The flight controls for the helicopter is designed in Matlab/Simulink and the same is visualized in X-Plane flight simulator. The approach involves software in loop simulation method where controls are designed in Matlab/Simulink and the responses are observed on X-Plane plant. The interaction between the Matlab/Simulink and X-Plane is through UDP. A parameter identification of the X-Plane model is carried out from data obtained through UDP. This simulation setup is a good way to learn the intricacies of systems development, plant identification and control.