Optimization of the PD coefficient in a flight simulator control via genetic algorithms

In this study the design of motion-based flight simulators is carried out by specifying the performance required of the motion cueing mechanism, to generate translational and angular motions as a 6-3 Stewart Platform Mechanism (SPM). These motions are intended to approximate the specific forces and angular accelerations encountered by the pilot in the simulated aircraft. Firstly, the dynamics of this 6-3 SPM is given in closed form as in our earlier study. Then, for the control of obtained dynamic model, a leg-length based PD algorithm is applied. In the optimization of the applied PD algorithm's coefficients, Real Coded Genetic Algorithms are used. So as to have faster and effective system's performance, the fitness function chosen, in Genetic Algorithms, having maximum overshoot value, settling time and steady state error which are obtained from the unit step response. The performance of the system studied is compared to the similar studies in the literature exist.