Modular Simulation Framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Abstract

This paper presents the concept and implementation of a simulation framework, capable of simulating a variety of different kind of unmanned aircraft. The concept is designed for various tests, including software-in-the-loop as well as hardware-in-the-loop simulations. The aim of this framework is to ease the simulation setup for different purposes including algorithm development, software testing and control station design. Different problem abstractions and a desired degree of simulation complexity shall be available. A terminology for this particular problem formulation is proposed. Different layers of configuration are identified and a framework is introduced which allows the automatic simulation setup. A library based approach is presented independent of a development language or tool. Subsequently, an example implementation is introduced within a hybrid Matlab/Simulink and C/C++ environment enabling a fast reuse of simulation modules, like sensors, airframe configurations, and environmental setups. The paper concludes with lessons learned from using this framework during the past years.