An Intelligent Framework to Develop Adaptive Parametric Reduced Order Model Database for Aerostructural Control

The goal of the project is to develop an intelligent framework to construct adaptive parametric reduced order model (PROM) database for aeroservoelastic (ASE) analysis and aerostructural control. In Phase 1, the framework for both equation-based and data-driven PROMs was developed and feasibility to introduce “engineering intelligence” to AE/ASE ROMs was successfully established. Carefully selected ROMs and intelligence algorithms were developed to accomplish autonomous PROM construction. It was verified that ROMs built under the guidance of intelligent algorithms enable unprecedented state consistence and computational performance. For the first time, data-driven ROMs with state consistence were developed in a broad flight envelope. Equation-based ASE PROMs were developed, and demonstrated >12X reduction in model size for control synthesis. In Phase 2, software will be further refined for enhanced performance and functionality. Genetic Algorithm (GA)-guided ROM algorithms will be improved in terms of search space exploration, meta-optimization, and state consistence. Adaptive sampling will be extended to multi-dimensional flight parameter space. Methods to integrate PROMs from separate domains, and sensors and controllers will be optimized to meet various needs in NASA. A modular intelligent environment will be integrated into NASA workflow for technology transition. The software will be extensively validated and demonstrated for automated ROM development, certification, and control design using flexible vehicles of NASA interest.

The developed technology will enable NASA to (1) determine critical flight conditions and guide CFD/ASE computation and flight testing; (2) enable real-time ASE simulation and flight control synthesis, and (3) develop advanced aerostructural control strategies. It will markedly reduce development costs and cycles of aerospace vehicles. NASA projects like High Speed ASE, MUTT, and MADCAT will benefit from the technology

The non-NASA applications include aerospace, aircraft, and watercraft engineering for fluid-structural interaction and fatigue analysis, flow control and optimization, hardware-in-loop simulation, and others. The proposed development can be used for (1) fault diagnostics and optimized design; (3) design and planning of simulations and experiments; (2) development of advanced control strategies.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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