Stability and manoeuvrability simulation of a semi-autonomous submarine free-running model SUBOFF with an autopilot system

On the basis of a full-appendage DARPA SUBOFF model (DTRC model 5470), a scale (λ = 0.535) semi-autonomous submarine free-running model (SFRM) was designed for testing its manoeuvrability and stability in the constrained water. Prior to the experimental tests of the SFRM, a six-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) manoeuvre model with an autopilot system was developed by using logic operations in MATLAB. The SFRM’s attitude and its trim polygon were presented by coping with the changes in mass and trimming moment. By adopting a series of manoeuvring tests in empty tanks, the performances of the SFRM were introduced in cases of three sailing speeds. In addition, the PD controller was established by considering the simulation results of these manoeuvring tests. The optimal control gains with respect to each manoeuvring test can be calculated by using the PID tuner in MATLAB. Two sets of control gains derived from the optimal characteristics parameters were compared in order to decide on the most appropriate PD controller with the line-of-sight (LOS) guidance algorithm for the SFRM in the autopilot simulation. Eventually, the simulated trajectories and course angles of the SFRM would be illustrated in the post-processor based on the Cinema 4D modelling.