This review presents a framework for the input-output analysis, model reduction, and control design for fluid dynamical systems using examples applied to the linear complex Ginzburg-Landau equation. Major advances in hydrodynamics stability, such as global modes in spatially inhomogeneous systems and transient growth of non-normal systems, are reviewed. Input-output analysis generalizes hydrodynamic stability analysis by considering a finite-time horizon over which energy amplification, driven by a specific input (disturbances/actuator) and measured at a specific output (sensor), is observed. In the control design the loop is closed between the output and the input through a feedback gain. Model reduction approximates the system with a low-order model, making modern control design computationally tractable for systems of large dimensions. Methods from control theory are reviewed and applied to the Ginzburg-Landau equation in a manner that is readily generalized to fluid mechanics problems, thus giving a fluid mechanics audience an accessible introduction to the subject.

The dynamics and control of two-dimensional disturbances in the spatially evolving boundary layer oil a flat plate are investigated from an input output viewpoint. A set-up of spatially localized inputs (external disturbances and actuators) and Outputs (objective functions and sensors) is introduced for the control design of convectively unstable flow configurations. From the linearized Navier Stokes equations with the inputs and outputs, controllable, observable and balanced modes are extracted using the snapshot method. A balanced reduced-order model (ROM) is constructed and shown to capture the input output behaviour of the linearized Navier Stokes equations. This model is finally used to design H-2-feedback controller to suppress the growth or two-dimensional perturbations inside the boundary layer.

The stabilizing effect of finite amplitude streaks on the linear growth of unstable perturbations [Tollmien-Schlichting (TS) and oblique waves] is numerically investigated by means of the nonlinear parabolized stability equations. We have found that for stabilization of a TS-wave, there exists an optimal spanwise spacing of the streaks. These streaks reach their maximum amplitudes close to the first neutral point of the TS-wave and induce the largest distortion of the mean flow in the unstable region of the TS-wave. For such a distribution, the required streak amplitude for complete stabilization of a given TS-wave is considerably lower than for beta=0.45, which is the optimal for streak growth and used in previous studies. We have also observed a damping effect of streaks on the growth rate of oblique waves in Blasius boundary layer and for TS-waves in Falkner-Skan boundary layers.