Delta Wing Flutter Control Using Spatially Optimized Transducers

ABSTRACT: This work focuses on the development of a design methodology for optimized flutter control of an aeroelastic delta wing. The approach rests on two main premises. The first is that the application of linear modeling and control design techniques can be used to control the predominantly nonlinear phenomenon of flutter by preventing its onset. This phenomenon is characterized by limit cycle oscillations (LCOs) of very high magnitude. These high magnitude deflections, along with the distinct harmonics commonly seen in fluttering plates, typically require cumbersome nonlinear modeling schemes for analysis. The second lies in the spatial optimization of actuator and sensor parameters to facilitate control of targeted modes while providing roll-off of higher order modes without the need for phase-inducing filters. In order to facilitate these optimizations, a versatile and computationally efficient technique for the modeling of piezo structures into analytical systems is developed. The method uses one a priori calculation of the coupling characteristics of gridded piezoelectric elements, contiguously covering the entire structure. This allows for the rapid calculation of the coupling characteristics of any patch configuration by summing the effects of the elements contained within the patch boundaries. Some additional advantages of this approach includ