<p>This control methodology utilizes real-time vehicle structural load and shape measurements to actively respond to and protect against vehicle damage due to structural overload. The innovation utilizes critical point load feedback within an optimal control allocation architecture that constrains the load at those critical points while still producing the control response commanded by a pilot. Specifically, the technology monitors the loads at critical control points and shifts the loading away from points at or near their limits.</p><p><strong>Work to date:</strong> Using NASA’s Full-Scale Advanced Systems Testbed (FAST) aircraft, the Armstrong team targeted the aileron hinge connection as a critical control point. The experiment produced successful results in simulation and flight, preventing structural overload and yielding good handling characteristics for optimization metrics and load constraint types.</p><p><strong>Looking ahead:</strong> This effort led to being awarded an ARMD seedling fund phase one to further develop the technique and expand the work to other autonomy efforts. Future tests will employ more advanced and unique sensor technologies, such as fiber optic strain sensors. This technology could open the door to truly novel approaches to vehicle and control system design.</p><p><strong>Benefits</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Effective:</strong> Identifies the optimum control surface usage for a given maneuver for both performance and structural loading</li><li><strong>Automated:</strong> Monitors and alleviates stress on critical load points in real time</li><li><strong>Economical:</strong> Decreases the need for repairs and general maintenance</li></ul><p><strong>Applications</strong></p><ul><li>Jet aircraft</li><li>Rocket controls</li><li>Industrial robotics</li><li>Structural health monitoring and load alleviation</li></ul>