Effects of aeroelastic modes on the dynamics of a flexible hypersonic vehicle

Aeroelastic modes are significant dynamic coupling in flexible hypersonic vehicle. This paper focus on the aeroelasitc modes in hypersonic vehicle model. The effects of elastic deformation of fuselage on the control angle and aerodynamic are analyzed. First, the analytical expressions of the changes of angle of attack and elevon deflection are presented.Then, Linear Piston Theory is used to evaluate the pressure distribution on the vehicle due to elastic deformation. The simulation shows that the aeroelastic modes of the fuselage are important as its deflection affects the angle of attack and elevon deflection. The aeroelastic modes can significantly influence the force and moment of the vehicle, and should be included in hypersonic vehicle modeling.