Centralized and Distributed Linear Quadratic Design for Flight Formations

This paper focuses on the analysis of the particularities of control for multi-agent systems. The design method is based on an optimal control approach which requires the solution of Linear Quadratic Regulator problem (LQR). The characteristics of the two types of control (centralized and distributed) for unmanned aerial vehicles flight formations are highlighted by the case studies. The dynamics of an UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) is used for the longitudinal motion. The flight formation considered as a case study consists of four identical agents.