Aircraft Active Flutter Suppression: State of the Art and Technology Maturation Needs

Abstract

Active flutter suppression, which is a part of the group of flight vehicle technologies known as active controls, is an important contributor to the effective solution of aeroelastic instability problems when they pop up late in the development of a new aircraft or, if used from the start of the design process, it is a key element in multidisciplinary design optimization that could lead to more efficient aircraft. This work presents a thorough overview of more than 50 years of research and development in the active flutter suppression area. Along the way, key historical developments and the current state of the art in all supporting disciplines are surveyed. Technology gaps and research and technology needs are identified. Special attention is given to the vehicle safety issue and to research and development in the active flutter suppression area that would complement ongoing research and development in all areas of aeroelasticity, aeroservoelasticity, and active control. A thorough bibliography contains references that cover all building blocks of active flutter suppression technology. The work would, hopefully, contribute to the preservation of the treasures of experience and knowledge in this area so that they would not be forgotten and lost and would remain available to professionals working in this field.