Adaptive Structural Mode Control, Phase I

M4 Engineering proposes the development of an adaptive structural mode control system. The adaptive control system will begin from a "baseline" dynamic model of the system, which will be updated as the system is operated. This allows the control inputs to be tailored to the observed behavior of the system across a range of flight conditions, weight conditions, and failure conditions, while accounting for uncertainty in structural dynamics and aerodynamics. The development of the adaptive control system involves a selection of a set of adaptive control algorithms, which will then be implemented and tested on a set of example problems. The performance of the algorithms will be evaluated and additional development and enhancements will be subsequently recommended.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.