On Tracking Aeroelastic Modes in Stability Analysis Using Left and Right Eigenvectors

Mode tracking is one of the critical problems in aeroelastic stability analysis. A novel mode tracking method is discussed in this paper using both left and right eigenvectors of aeroelastic systems. Orthogonality between left and right eigenvectors of aeroelastic systems is assessed, which helps to identify and track the aeroelastic modes versus airspeeds. The developed mode tracking method is then applied in aeroelastic stability analyses of various wing and aircraft configurations, modeled by using different aeroelastic formulations. In numerical studies, mode tracking results from the new method are compared with those of the traditional methods, such as the approach based on modal assurance criterion of right eigenvectors of aeroelastic systems. From the studies, the advantages of the new method introduced in this paper are highlighted. It is verified that the new approach is more effective and accurate in tracking aeroelastic modes, and it is also able to accommodate different aeroelastic formulations and problems.