Modelling and Simulation

Improving comprehensive modelling and simulation of aircraft is a fundamental part of the research at the Institute of Flight Systems. The aim is to be able to reliably and accurately predict the behaviour of the aircraft in all relevant flight and system states. An essential basis is provided by flight physics modelling, which describes the behaviour of the aircraft by physical laws in the form of mathematical models and empirical data from component tests, flight tests or wind tunnel experiments. The contributions of aerodynamics, masses, structure and aircraft systems such as propulsion, control and avionics are considered. Flight simulation technologies are both a field of research and a research tool of the institute. They enable simulation models to be tested in real time, for example in simulators for pilot training or for system development and evaluation of human-machine interaction. The institute operates several freely modifiable flight simulators for this purpose. By using such simulation technologies, risks can be minimised, costs reduced and the safety and efficiency of new aircraft sustainably improved.