System Identification of a Vortex Lattice Aerodynamic Model

The state-space representation of an aerodynamic vortex lattice model is considered from a classical and system identification perspective. Using an aerodynamic vortex model as a numerical simulator of a wing tunnel experiment, both full state and limited state data or measurements are considered. Two possible approaches for system identification are presented and modal controllability and observability are also considered. The theory then is applied to the system identification of a flow over an aerodynamic delta wing and typical results are presented. --------------------------1 Principal Scientist, Structural Dynamic Branch. Fellow AIAA 2 Research Assistant, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science. 3 J. A. Jones Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science and Dean Emeritus, Pratt School of Engineering. Fellow AIAA. Director, Center for Nonlinear and Complex Systems.