A review of modeling, simulation, and control technologies of altitude ground test facilities for control application

As the pivotal test equipment of aero-engines design, finalization, improvement, modification, etc., the Altitude Ground Test Facilities (AGTF) plays an important role in the research and development of the aero-engines. With the rapid development of advanced high-performance aero-engine, the increasing demand of high-altitude simulation test is driving AGTF to improve its test ability and level of automation and intelligence. The modeling method, simulation tool, and control technology are the key factors to support the improvement of the AGTF control system. The main purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of modeling methods, simulation tools, and control technologies in AGTF control system for future research. First, it reviews the evolution of AGTF in the world, from the early formative stage to integration stage. Then, the mathematical modeling method of AGTF for control application is overviewed. Furthermore, the simulation tools used in the AGTF control system are overviewed from numerical simulation to hardware-in-loop simulation and further to semi-physical simulation. Meanwhile, the control technologies used in the AGTF control system are summarized from single-variable control to multivariable integrated control, and from classical control theory to modern control theory. Finally, recommendations for future research are outlined. Therefore, this review article provides extensive literature information for the modeling, simulation, and control design of AGTF for control application.