Parachute decelerate trajectory optimization design based on genetic algorithm

In this paper, the optimal parachute decelerating trajectory of mini-UAVs is studied. The mini-UAV trajectory model of parachute decelerating segment is established. The influences to parachute drag are analyzed and the parachute canopy limit area formula is derived. In order to ensure the time effectiveness of mini-UAVs entering working destination, taking flight time and range as the performance function, considering end velocity and end height as optimization constraints, and choosing parachute parameters-- canopy area and parachute opening time as design variables, the optimal decelerating trajectory is solved by sequential quadratic programming method and genetic algorithm. Compared the results of these two kinds of optimized algorithms, their applicability to this decelerating trajectory is analyzed. The mechanism of timeliness during parachute decelerating trajectory is analyzed briefly. A numerical example results indicates the validity of the parachute decelerating trajectory design in this paper, which possesses practical value to guide research of parachute design.