Methodologies to Perform GNC Design and Analyses for Complex Dynamic Systems Using Multibody Software

Virtual simulation is currently a key activity that supports the specification, design, verification and operations of space systems. Taking advantage of dynamics research activities, ESA has currently been developing a multibody software (DCAP) together with industry for more than 30 years heritage in space applications. This software is a suite of fast, effective computer programs that provides the user with capability to model, simulate and analyze the dynamics and control performances of coupled rigid and flexible structural systems subjected to possibly time varying structural characteristics and space environmental loads. With the implementation of dedicated interfaces to other specialised software (such as NASTRAN, CATIA or Matlab/Simulink), it is possible to reproduce, with a quite good level of details, most of the key subsystems (such as trajectory, structures, configuration, mechanisms, aerodynamics, GNC and propulsion) of the launch vehicle and/or spacecraft in a single simulation.