Dynamic Response of a Flexible Structure with Internal Actuating System to Enhance Performance

Abstract

A technique for deforming a flexible wing to achieve a specified roll rate within a specified time at different Mach Numbers is examined. Rather than using an aileron system for roll, antisymmetric elastic twist and camber is determined to achieve the required rolling moment for a specified roll rate. The elastic twist and camber is achieved by providing a system of actuating elements distributed within the internal substructure of the wing to provide control forces. The modal approach is used to develop the dynamic equilibrium equations which culminates in the steady roll maneuver of a wing subjected to aerodynamic loads and the actuating forces. The distribution of actuating forces to achieve the specified steady flexible roll rate within a specified time was determined by using Independent Modal-Space Control (IMSC) design approach. Here, a full-scale realistic wing is considered for the assessment of the strain energy required to produce the antisymmetric twist and camber deformation to achieve the specified roll performance.