Aircraft Control Systems Exam Guide
Aircraft Control Systems Exam Guide
To derive the output expression with both reference and disturbance inputs, start by identifying feedback, forward path, and interaction points from the block diagram. Using block diagram algebra, particularly superposition, express the system output C(s) influenced by both inputs. The transfer functions guide multiplication across paths and summation where inputs combine. By methodically applying rules like Mason’s Gain Formula or block diagram reduction techniques, derive a formula expressing C(s) as a function of R(s) (reference input) and D(s) (disturbance input). Each path contributes differently depending on configuration (e.g., series, parallel, feedback).
For an underdamped harmonic oscillator, the natural frequency 𝜔𝑛 and damping coefficient 𝜁 are derived from the system parameters. 𝜔𝑛 is calculated as sqrt(k/m) = sqrt(25/1) = 5. The damping coefficient 𝜁 is calculated as c/(2*sqrt(k*m)) = 4/(2*sqrt(25*1)) = 0.4. These parameters are essential for analyzing oscillation frequency and decay rate under damping.
To find 𝐶(𝑠), express the system's output effect from both reference R(s) and disturbance D(s) using control system relationships. The closed-loop transfer function involves feedback impacting both inputs. Formulate using C(s)/R(s) and C(s)/D(s) separately, often involving combinations of forward paths and feedback loops in the block diagram. Using superposition, derive 𝐶(𝑠) = G1(s)R(s)G2(s) (forward transfer paths) + G3(s)D(s) (disturbance paths), where each G(s) function represents respective pathway gain factors as observed from the diagram.
Deriving the state-space form involves defining the state vector, typically [x, ẋ, 𝜃, 𝜃̇]^T, and manually transforming the given second-order differential equations to first-order system equations. For each physical parameter—mass M for the cart, mass m for the pendulum, length l, and gravity g—convert motion equations to matrices A, B (influence of input), C (outputs [x, 𝜃]) and D (direct input-output). The system form follows ẋ = Ax + Bu, y = Cx + Du. Substituting specific system equations into these matrices leads to a standardized linear system form crucial for control analysis.
Creating a block diagram involves correctly displaying inputs and outputs, feedback loops, and appropriately labeling system characteristics such as state variables and interactions. For an inverted pendulum, distinguish between translational (cart position x) and rotational dynamics (pendulum angle 𝜃). Connect these with interactions (e.g., control force 𝑢 affects cart leading to angular dynamics via a force transfer function). Represent variables such as applied forces, system inertia, and gravity-induced torques accurately. Annotate blocks to correspond with physical components and their mathematical representations, ensuring clarity in how controller outputs affect system behavior.
First, write the characteristic equation associated with the differential equation: 𝑚s^2 + 𝑐s + 𝑘 = 0. For the given values (𝑚 = 1, 𝑐 = 4, 𝑘 = 25), solve for s to find the roots. These roots will be complex conjugates due to the underdamped condition. Using the quadratic formula s = [-c ± sqrt(c^2 - 4mk)]/(2m), substitute the values. The discriminant c^2 - 4mk is negative, indicating complex roots: s = -2 ± 3i. Therefore, the natural frequency 𝜔𝑛 is 5 (since 𝜔𝑛 = sqrt(k/m)), and the damping ratio 𝜁 is 0.4 (since 𝜁 = c/(2*sqrt(k*m))). The solution x(t) considering the initial conditions x(0) = 0 and 𝑥̇(0) = 0.2 can be determined using: x(t) = e^(at)(C1cos(𝜔dt) + C2sin(𝜔dt)), where 𝜔d = 𝜔𝑛√(1-𝜁^2) and a is the real part of s.
The input-output transfer function matrix is derived from the state-space model composed of matrices A, B, C, and D. The transfer function matrix G(s) = C(sI - A)^(-1)B + D. Here, sI represents the identity matrix multiplied by s. To find G(s), first express the output Y(s) in terms of the input U(s) using the state-space equations. Caution is needed in matrix inversions and ensuring correct dimension alignment. The characteristic equation, derived from the determinant |sI - A|, provides poles, the eigenvalues of matrix A, essential for analyzing stability and system response.
Solving a system’s characteristic equation involves forming the equation |sI - A| = 0 from the state-space representation where A is the system matrix and sI is the identity matrix scaled by s. The determinant of (sI - A) set to zero provides the characteristic polynomial. Solving this polynomial, typically through factorization or numerical methods, yields poles of the system—values of s making the determinant zero. These poles determine system stability, with each representing a mode of the system's response.
First, express the given output response y(t) in Laplace transform form considering initial conditions are zero. Transform the input r(t) = t to the Laplace domain: R(s) = 1/s². The output in Laplace domain is Y(s) = L{y(t)}. From the relation Y(s) = G(s)R(s), solve for G(s) by dividing Y(s) by R(s). With Y(s) = e^(-t) transformed as Y(s) = 1/(s+1) and the component contributions from other exponential terms, G(s) can be derived. The poles are the values of s that make the denominator zero after simplifying G(s), and zeros are the values of s that make the numerator zero. Calculations yield complex simple roots for each.
To convert the mathematical model of an inverted pendulum on a cart to a state-space representation, first identify the state variables, commonly x, 𝜃, 𝑥̇, and 𝜃̇. The block diagram shows these state variables as outputs responding to the input force 𝑢. Equations given are: Mẍ = u - mg𝜃 and ml𝜃̈ = (M+m)g𝜃 - u. Representing them as first-order differential equations in state-space form involves setting up A, B, C, D matrices where ẋ = Ax + Bu and y = Cx + Du, accounting for both x and 𝜃 as outputs. This involves linearizing non-linear systems if necessary and ensuring the matrices accurately capture the system dynamics.