Enhanced Control System for Thrust Vectoring: Design, Verification, and Validation

This paper presents the integration of Thrust Vector Control (TVC) as an effective approach to enhancing the maneuverability of UAVs beyond classical aerodynamic control methods. Unlike classical aerodynamic controls, which primarily depend on using control surfaces to influence flight dynamics, TVC utilizes thrust vectoring to optimize vehicle performance, addressing limitations such as reduced effectiveness at low speeds or in complex flight regimes. TVC involves manipulating the direction of thrust produced by the UAV’s propulsion system, thereby providing a more versatile and responsive means of controlling flight dynamics compared to classical aerodynamic methods. This capability is particularly advantageous in scenarios where traditional control surfaces may be less effective, such as during high angles of attack or in turbulent environments. This paper uses a 6-DOF mathematical model that describes the dynamics of the under-test body. This model will be linearized to get simplicity, allowing easier analysis and design. This work proposes a control system that employs both PID and Fuzzy PID controllers for the presented TVC technique. This hybrid control strategy is designed to optimize performance by combining the stability of PID control with the adaptability of Fuzzy logic to enhance the robustness, enabling the system to adjust the variation flight conditions in real time. The proposed system aims to achieve precise control over the pitch and yaw axes through TVC, while roll control is managed via canard surfaces. The verification process involves simulations that replicate various flight scenarios to assess the performance of the TVC system under different conditions. By demonstrating the efficacy of TVC in addressing the limitations of aerodynamic control, this research contributes valuable insights into the design of advanced TVC control systems that promise enhanced maneuverability and operational capabilities. The results demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed control design in achieving desired flight behaviors, thus validating the model and control techniques.