Novel hybrid aeroelastic control scheme for flexible wings using internal moving mass

Aeroelastic control is a critical technique for high-aspect-ratio flexible wings. A novel aeroelastic control method is introduced, utilizing the internal Moving Mass Control (MMC) technique, which demonstrates the potential to fulfill hybrid control demands without incurring a drag penalty. Dynamic equations for a flexible wing equipped with a spanwise moving mass under unsteady aerodynamic loading are derived using mass position as the input variable. Control-oriented analyses indicate that intrinsic structural frequencies, flutter characteristics, and gust response can be actively modified by varying the spanwise and chordwise positions of the mass element. Among these, the chordwise position exerts a more significant impact on the structural modes and flutter speed of the wing. A hybrid aeroelastic control system, incorporating motion planning and control law, is proposed to evaluate real-time performance in Active Flutter Suppression (AFS) and Gust Load Alleviation (GLA). Control outcomes suggest that, with a mass ratio of 1/16 and a half-chord installation area for the guide rail, flutter speed increases by about 10%. Additionally, excitation amplitudes across different gust frequencies are substantially mitigated, achieving a maximum reduction of vibration amplitude by about 73%. These findings offer a comprehensive understanding of the MMC technique and its application to flexible aircraft.