Integration of structures and controls - some computational issues

This paper discusses issues related to the integration of the structural and control design processes for large scale structural systems. These issues are discussed in the context of vibration suppression for large space structures using linear regulator theory. The controlled system is modeled, via finite element analysis, as a system of linear differential equations in modal space. Attention is focused upon the specification of meaningful weighting matrices for the quadratic performance index, reduced order model selection and control design, and the combined optimization of structural and control designs. Numerical simulations for two and three bay trusses illustrate the concepts presented.