State space modeling and control of MIMO smart structures

A system identification technique for the derivation of minimal, continuous time state variable models for smart structural systems is presented. A procedure for the measurement of state variables using distributed sensors is developed. This allows for the implementation of MIMO full state feedback controllers with simple analog hardware. The structural identification technique is based upon the measurement of eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the structure. This procedure requires the measurement of steady state values at the modal frequencies and utilizes a sensor array consisting of shaped polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) film. The amount of control system hardware required for the implementation of linear quadratic regulators is significantly reduced. The proposed identification technique has been successfully implemented on an experimental cantilever plate system and the results are presented