Minimum-time turns using vectored thrust

Abstract : The objective of this thesis is to determine the optimal controls and trajectories which minimize the time to turn for a high performance aircraft with thrust vectoring capability. All determinations are subject to practical physical constraints. The determined controls and trajectories are then compared against other methods of turning in minimum time to conclude the effects and advantages of thrust vectoring. The results indicate that the use of vectored thrust can substantially reduce turning times and increase in-flight maneuverability. The greater the velocity at which the turn is initiated, the more the range of thrust vectoring capability is used and the greater the reduction in turning time. Originator-supplied keywords include: Optimization; Thrust vectoring; Vectored thrust; Minimum time turns; Steepest-ascent method; and Optimal controls.