Design and Development of R2M2 - A Multi-Physics Modeling Tool for Reusable Launch Vehicles

Abstract

ABSTRACT Designing a guidance and control (G&C) system for vertical take-off/vertical landing (VTVL) reusable launch vehicles is a complex and time-consuming process that requires comprehensive simulators considering the relevant system dynamics for various mission scenarios. The Rapid Reusable Launcher Simulation via Multi-physics Modelling (R2M2) tool aims to streamline this process. Implemented in Simulink/Simscape, R2M2 adopts a multi-physics/multi-domain modeling approach, making it adaptable to simulate a wide range of mission scenarios, including different vehicle configurations and environmental conditions. The simulation model is automatically assembled by a dedicated routine based on user-defined parameters. This paper describes the design and implementation of the R2M2 tool, its functionalities, advantages, and disadvantages, and showcases its capabilities for the ascent of a two-stage launch vehicle as a benchmark scenario