Quantitative Feedback Theory approach to AIAA Controls Design Challenge

Quantitative Feedback Theory (QFT) is applied to design flight control laws for the AlAA Controls Design Challenge nonlinear aircraft model. The control laws are designed in two steps. First, the aircraft model is linearized and baseline control laws are designed with the LQGATR technique. Then the QFT control design concept is applied to enhance robustness of baseline control laws in order to account for nonlinearities of the aircraft dynamics. The QFT technique loop shapes baseline control laws so that the resulting closed loop responses satisfy the inner loop design specifications. The outer loop control laws are designed using the LQG technique to provide hands-off autopilot for specified maneuvers.