Closed-loop control of ejection seats using vectored thrust propulsion systems

Modern fighter aircraft ejection seats are highly sophisticated systems designed to provide safe ejections for pilots under extremely adverse conditions. US Air Force and Navy have been sponsoring programmes for the design of a new generation of ejection seats with closed loop microprocessor controls utilizing new sensing and propulsive actuation mechanisms. This paper provide an introduction to the highly challenging guidance and control problems which require the use of control methodologies that can handle nonlinear, fast transient and uncertain hybrid dynamics