Static output feedback control of nonlinear aeroelastic response of a slender wing

The present work focuses on the use of optimal static output feedback (SOF) controllers for aeroelastic applications. Specifically, SOF controllers are designed for flutter suppression and gust-load alleviation of a slender wing. The SOF controller architecture is one of the simplest, using direct feedback of the sensor outputs. Thus, an SOF controller is very fast, but its performance is highly dependent on sensor selection and placement. Also, optimal design of SOF controllers require an accurate knowledge of the expected disturbance mode and gust spectrum. For optimal sensor placement and with knowledge of the disturbance, the SOF performance and robustness was found to be equivalent to that of linear quadratic regulator and linear quadratic Gaussian controllers for the example considered. The SOF controller was also shown to be very easy to alter and/or combine with other controllers for better overall system response.