Multi-Objective Optimal Control of High Aspect Ratio Wing Wind Tunnel Model

This paper presents the design of a multi-objective optimal controller for the 13.5 aspect ratio
Common Research Model (CRM) wind tunnel model. A Pareto front analysis is performed to
provide the optimal tradeoff between the competing objectives - gust load alleviation, maneuver
load alleviation, and drag minimization - so that the weighting matrices for the control law
are selected optimally. Also presented are two formulations of the controller: a state feedback
with Kalman filter design, and an output feedback form where sensors are used directly for
feedback control. The controller demonstrates a reduced peak-to-peak strain of 45.78% while
also reducing drag and mean bending moment. An output feedback formulation for gust load
alleviation is formulated and produces a 53% reduction in the strain response due to a gust
input.