Model identification and validation for translational movements of an octorotor UAV

This paper presents preliminary results on a complete translational system modeling and identification of a coaxial counter-rotating X8 octorotor. The objective is to assess the applicability of the widely-used quadrotor model to the coaxial eight-rotor aircraft. A real and representative model of the UAV is necessary to develop simulation tools for validation and to predict the system behavior. A series of tests were conducted with the X8 in flight when performing movements in the x, y and z directions. The model is simulated and validated offline in a MATLAB environment using real data.