Dynamics analysis and simulation of six DOF parafoil system

An increasing demand for the flight dynamics identification in studying parafoil system arises. In this paper, we explore the natural motion principle to investigate the parafoil flying based on structure configuration. A six degree of freedom parafoil model is established via aerodynamic equations. Consequently, simulations on the airdropping procedure is conducted. Given that the simulation outcomes cannot always match the practical trajectory precisely, an airdrop experiment is setup to verify the model as well as the simulating results, which is proven the superior of proposed model in both effectiveness and accuracy. The simulation focuses on the basic motions of gliding, turning, flare landing and the responses to mechanical parameters of the parafoil. The simulation results provide an opportunity for the regulation of parameters in parafoil trajectory control strategy.