Overview

This course develops basic measures of performance of a dynamic system with methods to target a set of conditions and optimize the performance. Topics include an overview of the Guidance, Navigation and Control System, state-space models, performance measures, problem of Bolza, the Maximum Principle, and transversality conditions. A significant focus of the course will be in practical methods and numerical techniques for solving boundary value problems. Computational methods will be used to solve a wide range of problems in dynamic optimization arising in combat systems such as rapid vehicle reorientation and targeting problems.  Applications include UxVs, autonomous systems, aerospace vehicles and robotic systems. Where appropriate, the course will illustrate systems aspects of mission design and operations.

Included in Degrees & Certificates

• 299
• 569

Prerequisites

• MA2121
• SS3500
• AE3815
• Or consent of instructor

Learning Outcomes

At the completion of the course students will be able to: 

• Understand the principles of astrodynamic optimization. 
• Acquire working knowledge of practical tools used in industry. 
• Exploit MATLAB-based tools for solving problems in dynamic optimization.