Periodic projectile linear theory for aerodynamically asymmetric projectiles

Abstract

A new analytical tool is proposed to aid in the design and performance evaluation of advanced guided projectile concepts. A projectile linear theory applicable to aerodynamically asymmetric configurations is created, leading to a linear, periodic dynamic system. Utilizing concepts in Floquet theory, stability of asymmetric projectile configurations is explored. While stability of many asymmetric projectile configurations can be accurately predicted using averaged linear, constant coefficient system dynamics, there are some configurations where the use of linear periodic systems theory is required for accurate stability prediction. This fact is shown by comparing stability boundaries of an example projectile configuration using the conventional projectile linear theory model and the new periodic projectile linear theory model.