Flutter-Prediction Tool for Flight-Test-Based Aeroelastic Parameter-Varying Models

• Published in: Journal of guidance, control, and dynamics control, and dynamics, 2009-01, Vol.32 (1), p.158-171
• Main Authors: Baldelli, Dario H, Zeng, Jie, Lind, Rick, Harris, Chuck
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aircraft; Algorithms; Applied sciences; Case studies; Computer science; control theory; systems; Control theory. Systems; Damping; Data analysis; Exact sciences and technology; Fundamental areas of phenomenology (including applications); Modelling and identification; Physics; R&D; Research & development; Solid mechanics; Structural and continuum mechanics; Vibration, mechanical wave, dynamic stability (aeroelasticity, vibration control...)
• ISSN: 0731-5090; 1533-3884
• DOI: 10.2514/1.36584

In this work, a parameter-varying estimation framework is proposed to increase the efficiency of flight testing. The framework generates a set of tools to rapidly evaluate parameters required to certify an aircraft during envelope expansion. The primary innovation is a generalized aeroelastic parameter-varying framework that allows for a variety of approaches and test procedures. The framework considers the variations of aircraft parameters due to flight conditions. The core algorithms are based on the well-developed linear fractional transformation algebra and μμ analysis for aeroelastic/aeroservoelastic systems. They are built upon an integrated parameter-estimation framework that is robust enough to tolerate real-world flight-testing environments. Two application cases were successfully solved using the algorithms developed during this work. The first case study involved a generic pitch and plunge linear aeroelastic wind-tunnel model. In the second case study, flight-test data from the Aerostructure Test Wing program were used to demonstrate the feasible application of the core algorithms using data coming from actual flight-test programs. [PUBLISHER ABSTRACT]