Tensors of Rank Two in Tensor Flight Dynamics

Tensor flight dynamics solves flight dynamics problems using Cartesian tensors, which are invariant under coordinate transformations, rather than Gibbs’ vectors, which change under time-varying transformations. Three tensors of rank two play a prominent role and are the subject of this paper: moment of inertia, rotation, and angular velocity tensor. A new theorem is proven governing the shift of reference frames, which is used to derive the angular velocity tensor from the rotation tensor. As applications, the general strap-down INS equations are derived, and the effect of the time-rate-of-change of the moment of inertia tensor on missile dynamics is investigated.