Keywords

Terrain avoidance algorithm, Roll angle command computation, Lateral flight path planning, Terrain-following radar data processing, Single-obstacle 3D terrain simulation

Abstract

This paper describes the development of a basic terrain avoidance algorithm which is proposed for use with the terrain following algorithm in the Low Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared System for Night (LANTIRN). The algorithms were modeled in a digital simulation in which an aircraft is flown over a single-obstacle three-dimensional terrain. Vertical acceleration and roll angle commands are generated in the simulation by the algorithms using terrain data collected from the modeled terrain following radar antenna scan. The response of the aircraft to these commands is determined, and the resulting trajectories over the terrain are displayed.

The development of the criteria for determining when a lateral maneuver is feasible is described, as well as the means of defining the lateral flight path to be flown for terrain avoidance. The process of deriving the equations for computing the roll angle commands to fly the aircraft to the lateral trajectory is also given. The terrain avoidance criteria and roll angle commands are optimized for the single-obstacle terrain. Recommendations are given for further development of the criteria and roll commands when studying the problem for a multi-obstacle terrain.

Notes

If this is your thesis or dissertation, and want to learn how to access it or for more information about readership statistics, contact us at STARS@ucf.edu

Graduation Date

1987

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Klee, Harold

Degree

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Engineering

Format

PDF

Pages

122 pages

Language

English

Rights

Public Domain

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Open Access)

Identifier

DP0021490

Subjects

LANTIRN (Military aeronautics); Airplanes--Collision avoidance--Simulation methods; Airplanes--Collision avoidance--Mathematical models; Guidance systems (Flight)--Computer simulation; Guidance systems (Flight)--Mathematical models

Accessibility Status

Searchable text

Download

Included in

Engineering Commons

Share

COinS
 

Accessibility Statement

This item was created or digitized prior to April 24, 2026, or is a reproduction of legacy media created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the University Libraries provides accessible versions of archival materials upon request. To request an accommodation for this item, please submit an accessibility request form.