Project 240 - Research on the Dynamics of Drifting

Mitigating the Effect of Atmospheric Turbulence: Toward More Useful MAVs

RMIT University, Shifted Dynamics, and Monash University conducted a series of UAV flight tests in a large, wind engineering tunnel. The video presents highlights of tests, which incorporate parametric variation of the aircraft configuration and geometry to assess the suitability for flight in relatively large levels of turbulence. These tests are part of ongoing research into strategies for mitigating the effect of turbulence on the flight of various UAV platforms.

The intensity and integral length scales in the tunnel can be somewhat controlled by reconfiguring the screens, jet, and collector in the various sections. The turbulence levels are designed to replicate those found in various urban terrain.

Flight test videos and research papers at project240.net/mav_turbulence

Recent developments in drift research were presented at the 2006 SAE World Congress in Detroit, MI, April 3-6, 2006. The paper summarizes the variations in tire force and moment equilibrium at various drifting angles.

SAE Paper 2006-01-1019 (click to download PDF manuscript)

Abstract
Driving at large angles of sideslip does not necessarily indicate terminal loss of control, rather, it is the fundamental objective of the sport of drifting. Drift racing challenges drivers to navigate a course in a sustained sideslip by exploiting coupled nonlinearities in the tire force response. The current study explores some of the physical parameters affecting drift motion, both in simulation and experiment. Combined-slip tire models are used to develop nonlinear models of a drifting vehicle in order to illustrate the conditions necessary for stability. Experimental drift testing is conducted to observe the dynamics featured in the track data. An accelerometer array on the test vehicle measures the acceleration vector field in order to estimate the vehicle states throughout the drift testing. Neural networks are used to identify the patterns in the accelerations that correspond to sideslip excursions during drifts. These estimates combined with computations of angular acceleration, yaw rate, and lateral acceleration build a framework for identifying the dynamics in terms of physical parameters and stability and control derivatives. The research developments are intended to support a future study quantifying the effects of vehicle configuration changes on drift capability as related to performance potential and handling qualities.





						Project 240 is changing to reflect diversified interests in many forms of vehicle dynamics. Study of drifting dynamics is ongoing and will complement research on the sensitivity of unmanned air vehicles to atmospheric turbulence as well as continuing the study of morphing aircraft. A new section of Project 240 will be developed soon regarding the dynamics of sub-scale drifting, such as Kyosho Mini Zs and 1/10th scale touring cars. Other pages in the site will have slowly-expanding photo galleries from various projects and trips.