Modeling and Operating Point Analysis for Aquatic Translational Motion of a Cross-Medium Vehicle

Modeling of cross-medium vehicles with complex shapes still requires a thorough investigation. This paper proposes a multi-method combination modeling approach to tackle such a problem. First-principle model is derived to determinate a model structure. Experiments are then set up to estimate parameters related to its rigid-body model and propulsion system. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is performed to calculate and identify coefficients related to surrounding fluid. Base on the model obtained, we systematically investigate the possible steady motion of the cross-medium vehicle and analyze their related performance. Results are instrumental for designing controllers for the vehicle to perform autonoumous missions.