Active Flutter Control using Discrete Optimal Constrained Dynamic Compensators

A method for synthesizing digital active flutter suppression controllers using the concept of optimal output feedback is presented. A recently developed convergent algorithm is employed to determine constrained control law parameters that minimize an infinite-time discrete quadratic performance index. Low-order compensator dynamics are included in the control law and the compensator parameters are computed along with the output feedback gain as part of the optimization process. An input noise adjustment procedure is used to improve the stability margins of the digital active flutter controller. Results from investigations into sample rate variation, prefilter pole variation, and effects of varying flight conditions are discussed. The study indicates that a digital control law which accommodates computation delay can stabilize the wing with reasonable rms performance and adequate stability margins.