Real CAD geometry convert to Matlab generic engine/aerodynamic propeller

Hey everyone,

I am writing my master thesis about airplane engine - propeller system numerical analysis. The main objective of this master's thesis is to develop a comprehensive MATLAB model that simulates F2D combat airplane engine and propeller systems. The model should allow for the systematic exploration of various engine and propeller parameters to identify the configurations that provide the best performance. So, the optimal values that strike a balance between engine and propeller parameters can be found and thereby ensuring the F2D combat sport airplanes operate near their performance limits while maintaining efficiency.

My question would be how should I convert real CAD geometry to matlab generic engine, or should I use CAD translations?

What is the more precise way of doing it?

Also, how to fit from real goemetry to Matlab parametrization?

I have watched the marine propeller and helicopter systems but haven't found any airplane ones, do you have any suggestions with more guidence to develp this kind of system?

Attaching my model and screenshot of it.

Thank you for your time and response!

Answer 1

[Arka]

Hi @Martynas Jurgaitis,

You can try to import the CAD assemblies into Simscape Multibody using the "Simscape Multibody Link" plugin, which supports a couple of CAD applications, such as:

• SolidWorks®
• Autodesk Inventor®
• PTC®Creo™

You can learn more about this plugin by visiting the MathWorks documentation link below:

https://www.mathworks.com/help/smlink/ug/installing-and-linking-simmechanics-link-software.html

Once you have exported the CAD model to a Simscape Multibody-compatible XML file, use the "smimport" function to convert the XML file to a Simscape Multibody model.

You can learn more about "smimport" by visiting the MathWorks documentation link below:

https://www.mathworks.com/help/sm/ref/smimport.html

Alternatively, you can also try to manually create a Simscape Multibody model by defining the bodies, joints, and other components using parameters extracted from the CAD model. This approach might be less precise in terms of geometric fidelity, but allows for simplifications that can speed up simulations.

To fit real geometry in MATLAB parameterization terms, you can:

1. Identify Key Features: Determine which features of the real geometry are essential for the simulation and which can be simplified or omitted
2. Simplify Geometry: Create simplified representations of the real geometry that capture the essential dynamics but reduce complexity
3. Determine Parameters: Calculate the necessary parameters (e.g. mass, center of mass, moments of inertia) either directly from the CAD model or through approximations based on simplified shapes
4. Create Custom Blocks: If necessary, create custom Simscape blocks to represent components that cannot be easily represented by standard blocks

Hope this helps!