Fractional-order fast terminal sliding mode control of a nonlinear aeroelastic wing section considering gust load.

This study introduces an innovative control framework that integrates an auto-tuning fractional-order fast terminal sliding mode control strategy with a finite time disturbance observer (FTDO-AFOFTSMC), aimed at mitigating flutter in nonlinear aeroelastic systems. This approach is specifically tailored to handle significant parameter variations and intense external disturbances. The control mechanism incorporates a dynamic adjustment of the switching control gain through a fuzzy logic inference scheme (FLIS), enhancing the system's adaptability to parameter uncertainties. Additionally, the inclusion of a nonlinear disturbance observer bolsters the system's robustness against extreme disturbances. The finite time stability of this control scheme is established using the Lyapunov theorem, and simulation results demonstrate the scheme's superior control performance and rapid convergence, surpassing traditional integer-order FTSMC in terms of vibration suppression under varying external loads and parameter conditions.