Automated trajectory synthesis for hypersonic vehicles using energy management and variational calculus techniques

A generalized algorithm based on energy management techniques and calculus of variations is discussed for determining optimal trajectories of hypersonic vehicles. This method employs both techniques simultaneously such that they augment each other in obtaining the optimum path. A simulation algorithm consisting of guidance and control and numerical integration aspects is briefly described. A generic vehicle for maximizing the payload into orbit is used for testing the algorithm and the resulting optimal trajectories are presented.