Cluster control of a distributed-parameter planar structure--middle authority control.

This paper proposes a generalized active vibration control approach, "cluster control," that explicitly targets sets of structural modes with some common property. The approach falls into a category of MAC (middle authority control) between conventionally used LAC (low authority control) and HAC (high authority control), possessing the benefit of stability and control law simplicity analogous to LAC, while providing high control performance as well as some flexibility of control gain assignment similar to HAC. The structure of a cluster control system is outlined, showing that it is possible to control a target cluster without affecting the other clusters. A design procedure for the cluster control system is then proposed. Experimental results are also presented.