Dynamic modeling and characteristics analysis of hose-paradrogue aerial refueling system

The dynamic model of hose-drogue aerial refueling system is unduly predigested in the research of autonomous aerial refueling, while high cost, computational complexity and inextensible limitation of hose are not solved by the available modeling methods. In order to overcome above problems, a dynamic modeling of hose-drogue aerial refueling system was presented based on the lumped parameter method. The hose was modeled by a series of variable length pendulums-connected rigid links. A set of governing equations of hose 3-D motion was derived subject to reeling in/out of hose, tanker motion, gravity and aerodynamic loads accounting for the effects of steady wind, atmospheric turbulence and tanker wake. The linear algebraic equations for the hose tensions was obtained from restrictions of pendulum's length. Reasoning from the equations, stability and applied bound for model were determined. Numerical simulations show a good correlation of the model's steady-state characteristics, including drag, position of drogue, compared with previously reported test data. Also the dynamic characteristics of the drogue assembly resulting from reeling out of hose, a typical roll maneuver of the tanker, tanker wake and the process of hose whip phenomenon were investigated. Finally, the simulation results show the effectiveness of the model.