eVTOL Modeling Framework for Future Level-D Training Simulators

This paper presents an adapted aerodynamics modeling framework that will be used to develop future Level-D flight training simulators for electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. It enables physics-based multi-rotor models to simulate accurate stability and control characteristics defined by aircraft requirements or determined from system identification techniques using flight test data. For this study, parameter estimation in the frequency domain is used to generate linear state-space 6 degrees of freedom (6-DoF) quasi-steady models from a non-linear physics-based simulation model. A common model structure is formulated to handle the two principal flight configurations, wing-borne and thrust-borne flight, and the transitions between the two. As with fixed wing and rotary wing flight simulators, eVTOL simulators are expected to be qualified using updated Qualification Test Guide (QTG) requirements prior to providing pilot training for these vehicles. This paper focuses on how CAE's modeling framework can be used to develop a platform-agnostic real-time aircraft performance and handling model for pilot training.