Research article
Open Access
Special Aspects in Attitude Control of a
Spacecraft, Equipped With Inertial Actuators
Levskii MV*
Research Institute of Space systems, Khrunichev State Space research-and-production Center, Korolev, Moscow region, Russia
*Corresponding author: Levskii MV, Research Institute of Space systems, Khrunichev State Space research-and-production Center, Korolev, Moscow
region, Russia, E-mail:
@
Received: September 19, 2017; Accepted: October 09, 2017; Published:October 31, 2017
Citation: Levskii MV (2017) Special Aspects in Attitude Control of a Spacecraft, Equipped With Inertial Actuators. J Comp Sci Appl Inform Technol. 2(4): 1-9. DOI: 10.15226/2474-9257/2/4/00121
Abstract
The problem of correct choosing the time of optimal rotation from
an arbitrary initial position into prescribed final angular position
is investigated. The case, when slew maneuver is carried out with
minimal magnitude of spacecraft angular momentum, is considered.
Calculated dependences for constructing optimal program of
reorientation (in sense of minimum angular momentum) are written
as the law of variation of the angular velocity vector. Optimal control
is in the class of regular motions. Dynamics of spacecraft rotation
during the slew maneuver is similar to the known method of control,
designed earlier, which includes as much as possible fast acceleration
of a spacecraft, rotation with constant modulus of angular momentum
and as much as possible fast cancellation of angular momentum. The
formalized equations are presented, and computational expressions
for determination of optimal duration of reorientation maneuver
are obtained for known mass-inertial characteristics of a spacecraft,
if attitude control is made by inertial actuators (system of control
moment gyroscopes, gyrodynes). The knowledge of fit range of
preferable duration of a slew maneuver helps to plan correctly the
flight program of spacecraft controlled by the powered gyroscopes. The
condition for determining the moment of the beginning of deceleration
which uses current parameters of motion (information on angular
position of a spacecraft and measurements of angular velocity) was
given, what considerably increases accuracy of spacecraft move into a
required position. Example of optimal spacecraft rotation and results
of mathematical simulation adds the made theoretical descriptions,
and illustrates reorientation process in visual form.
Keywords: Optimal control; Spatial orientation; Spacecraft attitude; Optimized functions; Control moment gyroscopes;
Keywords: Optimal control; Spatial orientation; Spacecraft attitude; Optimized functions; Control moment gyroscopes;
Introduction
Below we solve the problem of a choosing the duration of
maneuver of spacecraft transfer into position of the required
orientation (reorientation maneuver of a spacecraft). As spatial
reorientation we mean transfer of axes ОXYZ bounded to the
spacecraft body from one known angular position into another
known (typically prescribed) angular position in a finite amount
of time T. In this case, parameters of a slew maneuver (for
example, components of slew quaternion) are known in advance,
even before the beginning of maneuver; any initial angular
mismatches can be possible (from a few degrees up to 180°). The
angular orientation of the right-hand coordinate system ОXYZ
(as well as its initial and final positions, ОXst Yst Zst and
ОXf Yf Zf) is
determined relative to a chosen coordinate system (reference
basis I). In most cases the reference basis is inertial coordinate
system ОXin Yin Zin (ICS).
Many papers are dedicated to questions of controlled rotations of solid body around its centre of mass [1-13]. In particular, the kinematic problem of a slew maneuver is studied in detail where solution was resulted for variant when angular velocity vector is limited by modulus [3]. In [4], the questions of optimal rotation of a spacecraft by criteria of fast response and minimum of energy expense for a case when the region of admissible values of the controlling moment is limited by sphere are considered, and itself spacecraft rotates around the vector of finite slew. Interesting results are presented in [5] where control is constructed by method of the combined synthesis by criterion of the generalized work. Later works [6,7] are known also (including decisions on the basis of algorithms of indistinct logic [7]) which also describe the constructing the controls stabilizing rotation of a spacecraft abound the instantaneous Euler axis (we will notice, that the majority of decisions corresponds to spacecraft rotation around motionless axis) though the rotation in the plane of the least slew angle is not always optimum in practice (but only in individual special cases), however exactly it was not executed [3-8].
In this paper, it is supposed that inertial actuators, in particular, powered gyroscopes (or gyrodynes), are used for control of spacecraft attitude, and size of angular momentum of spacecraft becomes essential-critical, therefore we must take into account this size at control of spacecraft rotation [9]. Earlier, the control method for spacecraft reorientation has been designed, which takes into account restriction of angular momentum of a spacecraft [1]. This method is accepted as model motion (as reference). From theoretical studies is known that level of spacecraft’s angular momentum and time of a slew maneuver T are interdependent; if angular momentum is small (i.e. less) then duration of maneuver is more large [1,2,12]. However at presence of perturbations acting upon the spacecraft, the choice of time T is not so obvious (further we will show that available stock of the angular momentum of gyro-system has significant role at timing T). This investigation is dedicated to finding of optimal duration of spacecraft reorientation (within the mode [1]) at which the reserved stock of angular momentum of gyroscopes system would be maximum.
Many papers are dedicated to questions of controlled rotations of solid body around its centre of mass [1-13]. In particular, the kinematic problem of a slew maneuver is studied in detail where solution was resulted for variant when angular velocity vector is limited by modulus [3]. In [4], the questions of optimal rotation of a spacecraft by criteria of fast response and minimum of energy expense for a case when the region of admissible values of the controlling moment is limited by sphere are considered, and itself spacecraft rotates around the vector of finite slew. Interesting results are presented in [5] where control is constructed by method of the combined synthesis by criterion of the generalized work. Later works [6,7] are known also (including decisions on the basis of algorithms of indistinct logic [7]) which also describe the constructing the controls stabilizing rotation of a spacecraft abound the instantaneous Euler axis (we will notice, that the majority of decisions corresponds to spacecraft rotation around motionless axis) though the rotation in the plane of the least slew angle is not always optimum in practice (but only in individual special cases), however exactly it was not executed [3-8].
In this paper, it is supposed that inertial actuators, in particular, powered gyroscopes (or gyrodynes), are used for control of spacecraft attitude, and size of angular momentum of spacecraft becomes essential-critical, therefore we must take into account this size at control of spacecraft rotation [9]. Earlier, the control method for spacecraft reorientation has been designed, which takes into account restriction of angular momentum of a spacecraft [1]. This method is accepted as model motion (as reference). From theoretical studies is known that level of spacecraft’s angular momentum and time of a slew maneuver T are interdependent; if angular momentum is small (i.e. less) then duration of maneuver is more large [1,2,12]. However at presence of perturbations acting upon the spacecraft, the choice of time T is not so obvious (further we will show that available stock of the angular momentum of gyro-system has significant role at timing T). This investigation is dedicated to finding of optimal duration of spacecraft reorientation (within the mode [1]) at which the reserved stock of angular momentum of gyroscopes system would be maximum.
Equations of motion and statement of the control
problem
It is assumed that the spacecraft attitude control is realized
using actuators that generate torques relative to all three
principal central axis of inertia of the spacecraft. Angular motion
of the spacecraft as a solid body we describe by the equations
written down in quaternion variables [3].
where ω is the vector of absolute angular velocity of a
spacecraft; Λ is the quaternion reflected spacecraft orientation
relative to inertial basis I, and the symbol
denotes the
multiplication of quaternion’s. The equation (1) has the
boundary conditions Λ(0) = Λin
and Λ(T) = Λf. The quaternions
Λin and Λf that specify directions of spacecraft axes at initial and
final moments of time have any arbitrary a priori given values
satisfying the condition || Λin ||= || Λf ||= 1. Spacecraft motion is
considered optimum if the value
is minimal (T is the time of termination of the slew maneuver),
where ωi are the projections of the absolute angular velocity on
axes of the body’s coordinate system, Ji are the spacecraft central
principal moments of inertia. Optimal control of a spatial rotation
consists in transfer of a spacecraft from the position Ʌin into the
position Ʌf according to the equation (1) with the minimum value
of the index (2) which corresponds to maximal magnitude of
angular momentum L with the components Li = Ji ωi.
For the spacecrafts, controlled by powered gyroscopes (gyrodynes or flywheels), minimization of angular momentum of a spacecraft body is very important. Now powered gyroscopes (gyrodynes) have received good application as executive mechanisms of spacecraft attitude system. Their use in regime of a slew maneuver demands that the summary angular momentum of the gyro-system would not exceed the admissible value. At control of spacecraft attitude with use of inertial actuators (control moment gyroscopes), the vector of angular momentum of the gyro-system should be within preset limited region S, and the extending of this vector beyond the region S leads to loss of controllability of a spacecraft; the size of available angular momentum determines the controlling possibilities of gyrosystem. Control of spacecraft rotation is achieved by redistribution of the angular momentum between the system of gyrodynes and spacecraft body; total angular momentum of a spacecraft as solid body with rotating masses is equal or close to zero [9]. When designing, analyzing, elaborating, and modeling the algorithms of attitude control of a spacecraft with powered gyroscopes it is assumed that region S of available angular momentum of the system of powered gyroscopes is limited by a sphere with radius R0. Such statement is used by many developers, designers and researchers [14-17]; it is valid for a large number (if not for the majority) of spacecraft. Obviously, for the guaranteed presence of angular momentum G of powered gyroscopes’s system within region S it is necessary that | G | was as small as possible. Hence, it is necessary, that during operated rotation of a spacecraft from position Ʌin in position Ʌf the modulus of angular momentum of spacecraft body was minimum possible (since L + G ≈ 0, where L is the angular momentum of the spacecraft body, and G is the angular momentum of the system of powered gyroscopes). From here we understand a sense of the formulated problem of control with minimization of the index (2), because the stock of the angular momentum of the gyro-system, determined by difference R0 – | L | will be maximal in this case only.
For the spacecrafts, controlled by powered gyroscopes (gyrodynes or flywheels), minimization of angular momentum of a spacecraft body is very important. Now powered gyroscopes (gyrodynes) have received good application as executive mechanisms of spacecraft attitude system. Their use in regime of a slew maneuver demands that the summary angular momentum of the gyro-system would not exceed the admissible value. At control of spacecraft attitude with use of inertial actuators (control moment gyroscopes), the vector of angular momentum of the gyro-system should be within preset limited region S, and the extending of this vector beyond the region S leads to loss of controllability of a spacecraft; the size of available angular momentum determines the controlling possibilities of gyrosystem. Control of spacecraft rotation is achieved by redistribution of the angular momentum between the system of gyrodynes and spacecraft body; total angular momentum of a spacecraft as solid body with rotating masses is equal or close to zero [9]. When designing, analyzing, elaborating, and modeling the algorithms of attitude control of a spacecraft with powered gyroscopes it is assumed that region S of available angular momentum of the system of powered gyroscopes is limited by a sphere with radius R0. Such statement is used by many developers, designers and researchers [14-17]; it is valid for a large number (if not for the majority) of spacecraft. Obviously, for the guaranteed presence of angular momentum G of powered gyroscopes’s system within region S it is necessary that | G | was as small as possible. Hence, it is necessary, that during operated rotation of a spacecraft from position Ʌin in position Ʌf the modulus of angular momentum of spacecraft body was minimum possible (since L + G ≈ 0, where L is the angular momentum of the spacecraft body, and G is the angular momentum of the system of powered gyroscopes). From here we understand a sense of the formulated problem of control with minimization of the index (2), because the stock of the angular momentum of the gyro-system, determined by difference R0 – | L | will be maximal in this case only.
Formalization of optimal control of spacecraft’s
slew maneuver
Let us shortly write down basic relationships and equations
describing optimal motion of a spacecraft. The accepted functional
(2) does not contain (in an explicit form) components Мi of the
moment of forces. Therefore the projections of angular velocity
ωi (
) are considered as the controlling variables (controls).
It is known the following. Minimal value of index (2) is no less than quantity F / T, where
It is known the following. Minimal value of index (2) is no less than quantity F / T, where
But index (2) is equal to F / T if angular velocity ω is
piecewise continuous function (i.e. when the jump-like changes
in the angular velocity are possible and the situation ω(0+) ≠ 0,
ω(T) ≠ 00 is admissible) and | L |= const within interval of time 0 <
t < T. We must minimize the integral F above all. For minimization
of the integral F, the Hamilton function
May be used together with the equations [3]
Where р1 , р2 , р3 are projections of certain vector р onto axes
related with spacecraft, and | P |= 1; r0 = const > 0 (the equations
(3) show that the vector р is immovable relative to inertial basis
I).
If there were no restrictions of the moment of forces, then optimal rotation of a spacecraft (in sense of criterion (2)) satisfies the equations (3) and the equations [2]
If there were no restrictions of the moment of forces, then optimal rotation of a spacecraft (in sense of criterion (2)) satisfies the equations (3) and the equations [2]
Where b > 0 is scalar value. Note that T ≠ 0 (the time T
satisfies the condition 0 < T < ∞). It is obvious that the equations
(4) provide maximum of the Hamiltonian H for any b. Optimal
value is
Since the turn is terminated at time T, i.e. the terminal
condition Λ(T) = Λf must be satisfied at given time T). The
problem of determining the optimal control consists in solving
the system of equations of angular motion (1) and the equations
(3) under the condition that optimal vector-function ω (t) is chosen
basing on the requirements (4) and this solution satisfies the
boundary conditions Λ(0) = Λin , Λ(T) = Λf. The angular momentum
L and the magnitude b are connected by the formula:
Notice that
= const for system of
the equations (3), (4) (since
= 0 for values
calculated using the equations (3) with ωi calculated
according to (4)). In case of unlimited moments Мi,
spacecraft rotates with | L |= const = F / T at entire interval of
motion 0 < t < T; optimal rotation of a spacecraft is carried out
with constant modulus of angular momentum Lm. Concrete value
Lm is unequivocally determined by time of maneuver termination
T. The optimal vectors ω and р are connected by relation [2]
At satisfying the conditions Λ(0) = Λin , Λ(T) = Λf for solution
to equations (1) Λ(t), where Lm > 0 is the magnitude (modulus)
of angular momentum with which the slew maneuver of a spacecraft
is made. The equations for angular velocities ωi can be formalized
in following form:
During optimal maneuver (without restrictions for Мi ), the
desired solution ω(t) has the following properties
Optimal control of spatial rotation consists of a short-term
imparting the initial conditions of motion (the calculated
angular velocity) to the spacecraft at the beginning of a slew
maneuver, maintenance of spacecraft rotation with demanded
(programmed) angular velocity ω(t) at which the modulus of
angular momentum of a spacecraft has constant value | L |= const,
and a short-term suppressing of available angular velocity to
zero at the moment of time t = T, when Ʌ(t) = Ʌf (at achievement
by spacecraft of final position Λf ). Key problem is the finding the
law of variation of the vector p(t) and value Lm that at result of
solving the system of the equations (1), (3), (5) with the initial
condition Λ(0) = Λin , the boundary condition Ʌ(T) = Ʌf was
satisfied at right endpoint (the determination of the vector p(0)
is a separate and rather complicated problem).
The problems in which the boundary values ω(0) = ω(T) = 0 (such conditions of spacecraft rotation are most typical) are of practical importance. Of course, at the times t = 0 and t = T the angular velocity for a nominal program of spacecraft rotation, determined by equations (5), are not equal to zero. Consequently, transferring segments are unavoidable: acceleration of rotation as a transfer from the state of rest (when ω = 0) to the regime of rotation with an angular momentum of maximal magnitude H0, and braking, i.e., reduction of the spacecraft’s angular momentum down to zero; and for that to finish a maneuver during given time T should be H0 > Lm. Between acceleration of rotation and braking, the equations (3) and
The problems in which the boundary values ω(0) = ω(T) = 0 (such conditions of spacecraft rotation are most typical) are of practical importance. Of course, at the times t = 0 and t = T the angular velocity for a nominal program of spacecraft rotation, determined by equations (5), are not equal to zero. Consequently, transferring segments are unavoidable: acceleration of rotation as a transfer from the state of rest (when ω = 0) to the regime of rotation with an angular momentum of maximal magnitude H0, and braking, i.e., reduction of the spacecraft’s angular momentum down to zero; and for that to finish a maneuver during given time T should be H0 > Lm. Between acceleration of rotation and braking, the equations (3) and
are satisfied.
If the conditions of slew maneuver Λin , Λf , and the time T are such that times of acceleration and braking are very small (in comparison with the total time of a maneuver T) and we may to neglect them, then one can consider as impulsive processes both imparting necessary angular momentum H0 to the spacecraft and reducing available angular momentum down to zero, and almost during the entire maneuver (between acceleration and braking) | L (t) |= const = H0 with satisfaction of the equations (3), (8). When finding optimal solutions p(t), ω(t) the value of vector р at the moment of instant t = 0 is determinative.
If the controlling moment М is limited, then a boost of spacecraft angular momentum to the required level | L |= H0 at the beginning of the slew maneuver and damping of available angular momentum to zero at the end of reorientation maneuver occupy some finite (distinct from zero) time. Of interest is the general case, when conditions of slew maneuver Λin and Λf are such that one cannot neglect the transition segments (acceleration and braking). Let the vector М satisfy the condition Where Мi are the projections of the moment of forces М on the central principal axes of the spacecraft; m0 is the maximum admissible magnitude of the controlling moment. Dynamics of spacecraft rotation is described by the equations
If the conditions of slew maneuver Λin , Λf , and the time T are such that times of acceleration and braking are very small (in comparison with the total time of a maneuver T) and we may to neglect them, then one can consider as impulsive processes both imparting necessary angular momentum H0 to the spacecraft and reducing available angular momentum down to zero, and almost during the entire maneuver (between acceleration and braking) | L (t) |= const = H0 with satisfaction of the equations (3), (8). When finding optimal solutions p(t), ω(t) the value of vector р at the moment of instant t = 0 is determinative.
If the controlling moment М is limited, then a boost of spacecraft angular momentum to the required level | L |= H0 at the beginning of the slew maneuver and damping of available angular momentum to zero at the end of reorientation maneuver occupy some finite (distinct from zero) time. Of interest is the general case, when conditions of slew maneuver Λin and Λf are such that one cannot neglect the transition segments (acceleration and braking). Let the vector М satisfy the condition Where Мi are the projections of the moment of forces М on the central principal axes of the spacecraft; m0 is the maximum admissible magnitude of the controlling moment. Dynamics of spacecraft rotation is described by the equations
The laws of the fastest imparting and reduction of the angular
velocity under the constraint (9) are known [10]. At the segment
of acceleration, optimal control has the form
Where J = diag ( J1 , J2 , J3 ) is the inertia tensor of spacecraft.
At optimal motion, angular momentum of a spacecraft does not
change the direction in inertial coordinate system, because the
controlling moment М and angular momentum L have same
direction. The magnitude of angular momentum varies according
to the law | L |= m0 t. At the segment of braking, optimal control
we write in following form
At optimal motion, angular momentum of a spacecraft
does not change the direction in inertial coordinate system, and
the controlling moment М makes with the angular momentum
an angle of 180 degree. The angular momentum varies according
to the law L = L br − m0 (t − t0) , where
L br = | J·ω (t0) |; t0 is
time of beginning of rotation damping. For both acceleration
and braking, optimal control (as fast response) is control under
which the controlling moment is parallel to angular momentum
of a spacecraft at any moment of time.
At time instant t = 0 the angular momentum of a spacecraft L = 0, and the control (11) is necessary for the fastest reaching the preset level L= H0. Until | J ω(t) |< H0 , the controlling moment М = m0 L / | L | is optimum. Since the instant tac when the equality | J ω(tac) |= H0 becomes valid, optimum will be the motion (3), (8) at which the equality | J ω(t) |= H0 take place. It is obvious that because of existence of the boundary condition ω(T) = 0 such a time instant tbr (tbr < T ) should exist starting from which the angular momentum is begun to be reduced at a maximum controlling moment М = −m0 L / | L | (the instant tbr is chosen so that by the moment of a absolute stop ω = 0 the spacecraft would occupy the desired angular position Ʌf ). At the intervals of rotation acceleration and braking, the controlling moment М has ultimate maximum, and condition (9) is a strict equality, and within interval between acceleration and braking, the equations (3), (8) and equality | L |= const = H0 are valid. As result, the trajectory of spacecraft rotation Ʌ(t) is partitioned in three components: Ʌ(0) − Ʌ(tac) , Ʌ(tac) − Ʌ(tbr), and Ʌ(tbr) − Ʌ(T). Let us represent the quaternion of a slew in the form:
At time instant t = 0 the angular momentum of a spacecraft L = 0, and the control (11) is necessary for the fastest reaching the preset level L= H0. Until | J ω(t) |< H0 , the controlling moment М = m0 L / | L | is optimum. Since the instant tac when the equality | J ω(tac) |= H0 becomes valid, optimum will be the motion (3), (8) at which the equality | J ω(t) |= H0 take place. It is obvious that because of existence of the boundary condition ω(T) = 0 such a time instant tbr (tbr < T ) should exist starting from which the angular momentum is begun to be reduced at a maximum controlling moment М = −m0 L / | L | (the instant tbr is chosen so that by the moment of a absolute stop ω = 0 the spacecraft would occupy the desired angular position Ʌf ). At the intervals of rotation acceleration and braking, the controlling moment М has ultimate maximum, and condition (9) is a strict equality, and within interval between acceleration and braking, the equations (3), (8) and equality | L |= const = H0 are valid. As result, the trajectory of spacecraft rotation Ʌ(t) is partitioned in three components: Ʌ(0) − Ʌ(tac) , Ʌ(tac) − Ʌ(tbr), and Ʌ(tbr) − Ʌ(T). Let us represent the quaternion of a slew in the form:
Where
is the quaternion of spacecraft
rotation during the acceleration segment;
is the
quaternion of spacecraft rotation during braking;
is the quaternion of rotation during spacecraft rotation with
maximum angular momentum H0 (
is the conjugate of the
quaternion Λ, and
in is the conjugate of the quaternion Λin).
The optimal motion of a spacecraft consists of segments on which the controlling moment maximum in magnitude acts (segments of acceleration and braking), and of a segment of rotation with constant (in modulus) angular momentum, equal to the designed value H0 supporting the reaching of final position Ʌf in the given time T. On the segment of maximal controlling moment the angular momentum vector L has a permanent direction in the inertial space, but it is variable in magnitude (increase up to present value on the acceleration segment, and decrease to zero on the braking segment), while the controlling moment М is immovable with respect to the reference basis I (the vectors М and L are parallel); angular motion is determined by equations (1), (10). During the spacecraft rotation with maximum angular momentum the parameters of motion are determined by equations (3), (8). In this case, the angular momentum vector L has a constant magnitude H0, but its direction varies from a position preset at spacecraft acceleration to a position required during spacecraft braking. The spacecraft motion during its slew maneuver proceeds according to the following program of angular momentum variation: an increase of the magnitude of vector L from zero to H0 with a maximum velocity (with maximum moment М) at the invariable direction relative to the reference basis I; next follows rotation of vector L with a constant modulus of H0 according to the optimal law determined by equations (3), (8); and, finally, a decrease of the modulus of vector L down to zero with maximum possible velocity (with maximum moment М) at the invariable direction relative to the reference basis I. This program fully determines the spacecraft motion in the process of transfer from the state Ʌ= Ʌin , ω = 0 to the state Ʌ=Ʌf , ω = 0, since the equations (1) and the equality ω(t) = J -1 L(t) take place.
Since initial and final angular velocities are equal zero and the magnitude of controlling moment is constant | M |= const = m0 , duration of stages of acceleration and braking will be identical. The optimal solution ω(t) during segment of nominal motion (between acceleration and braking) possesses the properties (7), the vectors М and L are orthogonal, the magnitude of angular momentum is maximum and constant | L |= const = H0. Dynamics of motion is fully similar to solution of problem of spacecraft’s optimal rotation which was obtained in [1]. If the magnitude H0 of maximum possible angular momentum of a spacecraft is known, then after solving the problem of maximally fast response we shall find the time of a maneuver T; if the time T of termination of a maneuver is given, then value of parameter H0 in control law is subject to definition.
The optimal control of angular position of a spacecraft can be realized by the method which is similar to the known mode [1]. Since at spacecraft breaking the torque М is directed strictly against angular momentum L, the instant when braking begins can be predicted with a good accuracy. Duration of rotation damping is τ = | L |/ m0. The moment of the beginning of braking segment is determined by the condition:
The optimal motion of a spacecraft consists of segments on which the controlling moment maximum in magnitude acts (segments of acceleration and braking), and of a segment of rotation with constant (in modulus) angular momentum, equal to the designed value H0 supporting the reaching of final position Ʌf in the given time T. On the segment of maximal controlling moment the angular momentum vector L has a permanent direction in the inertial space, but it is variable in magnitude (increase up to present value on the acceleration segment, and decrease to zero on the braking segment), while the controlling moment М is immovable with respect to the reference basis I (the vectors М and L are parallel); angular motion is determined by equations (1), (10). During the spacecraft rotation with maximum angular momentum the parameters of motion are determined by equations (3), (8). In this case, the angular momentum vector L has a constant magnitude H0, but its direction varies from a position preset at spacecraft acceleration to a position required during spacecraft braking. The spacecraft motion during its slew maneuver proceeds according to the following program of angular momentum variation: an increase of the magnitude of vector L from zero to H0 with a maximum velocity (with maximum moment М) at the invariable direction relative to the reference basis I; next follows rotation of vector L with a constant modulus of H0 according to the optimal law determined by equations (3), (8); and, finally, a decrease of the modulus of vector L down to zero with maximum possible velocity (with maximum moment М) at the invariable direction relative to the reference basis I. This program fully determines the spacecraft motion in the process of transfer from the state Ʌ= Ʌin , ω = 0 to the state Ʌ=Ʌf , ω = 0, since the equations (1) and the equality ω(t) = J -1 L(t) take place.
Since initial and final angular velocities are equal zero and the magnitude of controlling moment is constant | M |= const = m0 , duration of stages of acceleration and braking will be identical. The optimal solution ω(t) during segment of nominal motion (between acceleration and braking) possesses the properties (7), the vectors М and L are orthogonal, the magnitude of angular momentum is maximum and constant | L |= const = H0. Dynamics of motion is fully similar to solution of problem of spacecraft’s optimal rotation which was obtained in [1]. If the magnitude H0 of maximum possible angular momentum of a spacecraft is known, then after solving the problem of maximally fast response we shall find the time of a maneuver T; if the time T of termination of a maneuver is given, then value of parameter H0 in control law is subject to definition.
The optimal control of angular position of a spacecraft can be realized by the method which is similar to the known mode [1]. Since at spacecraft breaking the torque М is directed strictly against angular momentum L, the instant when braking begins can be predicted with a good accuracy. Duration of rotation damping is τ = | L |/ m0. The moment of the beginning of braking segment is determined by the condition:
Where q j are the components of quaternion of mismatch
( j = 0, 1, 2, 3 );
is the magnitude of spacecraft’s
angular momentum. At braking segment, cancellation of angular
momentum is make according to linear law | L(t) |= H0- m0 (t-tbr)
, where tbr is the instant of the beginning of braking.
Determination of the time instant tbr according to actual (measured values) kinematic parameters of motion (angular mismatch and angular velocity) improves the accuracy of guiding the spacecraft to the required state Ʌ=Ʌf , ω = 0.
Determination of the time instant tbr according to actual (measured values) kinematic parameters of motion (angular mismatch and angular velocity) improves the accuracy of guiding the spacecraft to the required state Ʌ=Ʌf , ω = 0.
Example of mathematical simulation of optimal
rotation of a spacecraft
The aspects of optimization of the terminal control that
matches, in the prescribed time T, the right-handed coordinate
system OXYZ fixed to the spacecraft body with the basis whose
attitude in the inertial space is given are above investigated.
Now, in this section, we describe the numerical finding of the
optimal control of the spacecraft slewing maneuver. By way of
example, consider the slew maneuver of the spacecraft by 150°
from the initial angular position Λin in which the spacecraft axes
coincide with the axes of the reference basis I to the prescribed
angular position Λf. It was assumed in this case that the initial
and final angular velocities are zero: ω(0) = ω(T) = 0. The
elements of the quaternion Λf describing the desired attitude of
the spacecraft after its slewing are assumed to be λ0 = 0.258819,
λ1 = 0.723196, λ2 = 0.5, and λ3 = 0.4. We determine the optimal
angular velocity control program ω(t) for the spacecraft
maneuver from the attitude Λ(0) = Λin to the attitude Λ(T) = Λf .
We assume that the central principal moments of inertia of the
spacecraft are J1 = 217.3 kg-m2, J2 = 440.6 kg-m2, and J3 = 416.1
kg-m2; maximum magnitude of the controlling moment is m0 =
0.4 N-m; and maneuver duration is assumed equal T = 150 s.
Notice that the slew quaternion Λs corresponds to the case when
the final rotation vector (Euler’s axis) makes approximately the
same angle with the axis OX as with the plane perpendicular to
OX. This is a fairly difficult case of reorientation of a solid body
[4].
As a result of solving the boundary value problem corresponding to the transfer of the spacecraft from the attitude Λ(0) = Λin to the attitude Λ(T) = Λf, we obtained the rated value for vector р(0)={0.20548, -0.15337, 0.96657} (for possibility of solving the system of the equations (3), (8)). The desired accuracy (approximately 2 angular minutes) is attained at the fifth approximation step of the vector р(0) to the solution (method of solving the boundary value problem is identical to the algorithm described in [2]).
Key problem is to find of the values M(0) and H0 at which result of integration of the equations of motion with the initial conditions Λ(0) = Λin, ω(0) = 0 satisfies terminal conditions Λ(T) = Λf, ω(T) = 0 at the instant of time Т taking into account that the entire interval of motion consists of three stages - in the beginning of a maneuver (at acceleration) the trajectory of motion satisfies the equations (1), (10), (11); during spacecraft rotation with constant modulus of angular momentum (between acceleration and braking) the trajectory of motion satisfies the equations (1), (6); in the end of a maneuver (at braking) the trajectory of motion satisfies the equations (1), (10), (12).
The results of mathematical simulation for the slew maneuver under the optimal control are presented in Figure 1-4. Figure 1 shows the dynamics of the optimal angular velocities ω1(t), ω2(t), and ω3(t) in the body-fixed coordinate system in the course of the slew maneuver. One clearly see partition of the entire maneuver into three characteristic stages: acceleration of a spacecraft (gain of angular velocity), spacecraft motion with constant module of angular momentum (segment of nominal rotation), and spacecraft braking (reduction of angular velocity to zero). The law of forming the control also confirms this. The behavior of the rate of changing the angular momentum value is of a relay character, the duration of the segments of acceleration τac (when > 0) and braking τbr (when < 0) is identical and equals τ= 14.6 s. The maximum magnitude of spacecraft angular momentum during optimal rotation (the programmed level) is H0 = 5.83 N-m-s. The variation of the components λ0(t), λ1(t), λ2(t), and λ3(t) of the quaternion Λ(t), which determines the current attitude of the spacecraft in the course of the slew maneuver, is illustrated in Figure 2. Figure 3 shows the plots of the components l1(t), l2(t), and l3(t) of the ort of angular momentum L as functions of time. A distinctive feature is that the projection l1 varies insignificantly (its variation is much less than the variation of l2 and l3). This indicates that OX is the longitudinal axis of the spacecraft. It is also worth noting that the variables ω1(t) and l1(t) corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the spacecraft have a constant sign (for all combinations of the boundary values Λin and Λf)
As a result of solving the boundary value problem corresponding to the transfer of the spacecraft from the attitude Λ(0) = Λin to the attitude Λ(T) = Λf, we obtained the rated value for vector р(0)={0.20548, -0.15337, 0.96657} (for possibility of solving the system of the equations (3), (8)). The desired accuracy (approximately 2 angular minutes) is attained at the fifth approximation step of the vector р(0) to the solution (method of solving the boundary value problem is identical to the algorithm described in [2]).
Key problem is to find of the values M(0) and H0 at which result of integration of the equations of motion with the initial conditions Λ(0) = Λin, ω(0) = 0 satisfies terminal conditions Λ(T) = Λf, ω(T) = 0 at the instant of time Т taking into account that the entire interval of motion consists of three stages - in the beginning of a maneuver (at acceleration) the trajectory of motion satisfies the equations (1), (10), (11); during spacecraft rotation with constant modulus of angular momentum (between acceleration and braking) the trajectory of motion satisfies the equations (1), (6); in the end of a maneuver (at braking) the trajectory of motion satisfies the equations (1), (10), (12).
The results of mathematical simulation for the slew maneuver under the optimal control are presented in Figure 1-4. Figure 1 shows the dynamics of the optimal angular velocities ω1(t), ω2(t), and ω3(t) in the body-fixed coordinate system in the course of the slew maneuver. One clearly see partition of the entire maneuver into three characteristic stages: acceleration of a spacecraft (gain of angular velocity), spacecraft motion with constant module of angular momentum (segment of nominal rotation), and spacecraft braking (reduction of angular velocity to zero). The law of forming the control also confirms this. The behavior of the rate of changing the angular momentum value is of a relay character, the duration of the segments of acceleration τac (when > 0) and braking τbr (when < 0) is identical and equals τ= 14.6 s. The maximum magnitude of spacecraft angular momentum during optimal rotation (the programmed level) is H0 = 5.83 N-m-s. The variation of the components λ0(t), λ1(t), λ2(t), and λ3(t) of the quaternion Λ(t), which determines the current attitude of the spacecraft in the course of the slew maneuver, is illustrated in Figure 2. Figure 3 shows the plots of the components l1(t), l2(t), and l3(t) of the ort of angular momentum L as functions of time. A distinctive feature is that the projection l1 varies insignificantly (its variation is much less than the variation of l2 and l3). This indicates that OX is the longitudinal axis of the spacecraft. It is also worth noting that the variables ω1(t) and l1(t) corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the spacecraft have a constant sign (for all combinations of the boundary values Λin and Λf)
Figure 1: Variation of angular velocities during optimal maneuver
Figure 2: Variation of components of the quaternion Λ
Figure 3: Variation of the variables l1, l2, l3 under optimal control
Figure 4: Character of modulus of the controlling moment M during
rotation.
Finally, Figure 4 shows the variation of magnitude of
controlling moment in the course of the slew maneuver. All
three stages of the maneuver are well pronounced in it. During
acceleration and braking processes the controlling moment is
maximum possible. In the time interval between acceleration
and braking, the controlling moment magnitude is substantially
less than during gain and reduction of the spacecraft angular
velocity; controlling moment M is determined according to
dynamic Euler’s equations in which the time functions of
angular velocities ωi (t) are a solution to system of equations (3)
with expressions (8). At the stages of acceleration and braking,
the controlling moment module is constant; during spacecraft
rotation with maximum angular momentum the controlling
moment magnitude varies slightly (for a dynamically symmetric
spacecraft it is constant).
At numerical modelling, the trajectory Ʌ(t) and functions ωi corresponding to the optimal maneuver are obtained by integration of the equations of motion (1) and dynamic equations in which the derivatives are calculated according to the equations: (10), (11) if t < T / 2 and | L | < H0; or (6) if tac ≤ t < tbr; or (10), (12) if t ≥ tbr, taking into account the initial conditions Λ(0) = Λin, ω(0) = 0 and M(0) = Mst, where tac is the instant of termination of acceleration (the instant of achieving the equality | L | = H0 in the beginning of maneuver), tbr is the instant of start of braking; T is the given time of maneuver (the known fixed value); H0 is the calculated constant magnitude of spacecraft’s angular momentum between acceleration and braking; tac ≤ T / 2, tbr ≥ T / 2 (Ʌin is the quaternion of attitude before maneuver, Mst is the calculated value of the controlling moment to start acceleration). The moment of forces M within the interval between acceleration and braking is calculated by the equations (10) in which angular accelerations are calculated using the equations (6). In the presented example of simulation, the constants T, H0, tac, tbr and Mst have the following values: T = 150 s, H0 = 5.83 N-m-s, tac = 14.6 s, tbr = 135.4 s, and Mst = {0.156484, -0.060996, 0.363032 } N-m (as stated above Λin = 1). The values H0 , tac , tbr and Mst are calculated so that they obtained rotation ω(t) and the corresponding trajectory Ʌ(t) satisfy the equalities Λ(T) = Λf, ω(T) = 0 with account for the initial conditions Λ(0) = Λin, ω(0) = 0 and M(0) = Mst.
Accuracy of computations may be improved if to use the law for mathematical simulation of spacecraft acceleration.
At numerical modelling, the trajectory Ʌ(t) and functions ωi corresponding to the optimal maneuver are obtained by integration of the equations of motion (1) and dynamic equations in which the derivatives are calculated according to the equations: (10), (11) if t < T / 2 and | L | < H0; or (6) if tac ≤ t < tbr; or (10), (12) if t ≥ tbr, taking into account the initial conditions Λ(0) = Λin, ω(0) = 0 and M(0) = Mst, where tac is the instant of termination of acceleration (the instant of achieving the equality | L | = H0 in the beginning of maneuver), tbr is the instant of start of braking; T is the given time of maneuver (the known fixed value); H0 is the calculated constant magnitude of spacecraft’s angular momentum between acceleration and braking; tac ≤ T / 2, tbr ≥ T / 2 (Ʌin is the quaternion of attitude before maneuver, Mst is the calculated value of the controlling moment to start acceleration). The moment of forces M within the interval between acceleration and braking is calculated by the equations (10) in which angular accelerations are calculated using the equations (6). In the presented example of simulation, the constants T, H0, tac, tbr and Mst have the following values: T = 150 s, H0 = 5.83 N-m-s, tac = 14.6 s, tbr = 135.4 s, and Mst = {0.156484, -0.060996, 0.363032 } N-m (as stated above Λin = 1). The values H0 , tac , tbr and Mst are calculated so that they obtained rotation ω(t) and the corresponding trajectory Ʌ(t) satisfy the equalities Λ(T) = Λf, ω(T) = 0 with account for the initial conditions Λ(0) = Λin, ω(0) = 0 and M(0) = Mst.
Accuracy of computations may be improved if to use the law for mathematical simulation of spacecraft acceleration.
Problem of choosing the optimal time of the slew
maneuver
For a spacecrafts with inertial actuators (powered
gyroscopes), is important not only to minimize the angular
momentum during the slew maneuver, but also to preset
properly (maximum correctly) time T of maneuver ending. The
problem consists in determination of such duration of a slew T
(and the value of the parameter H0), that during the spacecraft
motion around its center of mass, evolution of vector G of the
total angular momentum of the system of gyrodynes will not
bring this vector beyond the limits of region S of admissible
values (no saturating of the system of gyrodynes will occur),
and no necessity will emerge in unloading, i.e., in removal of
accumulated angular momentum of the gyrodyne system by
applying the moment of forces of another nature (magnetic
[4], produced by switching the attitude control jet engines,
etc.). Such motions of spacecraft are considered as allowable
(in the sense of controlling the spacecraft orientation without
unloading the system of gyrodyne).
At solving the formulated problem (choice of optimal time of slew maneuver) two moments are initial - (a) slew maneuver of a spacecraft occurs according to the method [1], and (b) the stock of the angular momentum of the gyrodynes system should be maximum (at the found parameters of slew maneuver H0 and T ); last requirement allows to reduce probability of involving any other (except the gyrodynes) means of attitude control (for example, jet engines). For the case with zero boundary conditions ω(0) = ω(T)=0 only a single type of motion is realized: the first phase - acceleration of spacecraft rotation with maximal controlling moment | M |= m0 up to | L |= H0 , next the site of spacecraft motion with constant in magnitude of angular momentum | L |= H0 (with satisfaction of equalities (7)), and then the symmetric segment of spacecraft braking with maximal controlling moment | M |= m0 up to a full stop of the spacecraft ( М||L ). Changing the magnitude of angular momentum G of the system of powered gyroscopes during the slew maneuver is such that the condition is true on the segments of acceleration and braking (since the moment M of the controlling forces is much more perturbations moment Мper). And, in most cases, it is possible to assume ,where tac is the instant of termination of acceleration; tbr is the instant of the beginning of braking. For the hypothetical case when Мper = 0, acceleration of spacecraft rotation can be carried out up to situation | L |= R0 , because in this ideal case | L |= | G |, and within the interval between acceleration and braking we have d | G |/dt= 0 (here R0 is radius of the sphere entered in region S of available values of the angular momentum G of powered gyroscopes system).
In real conditions of flight Мper ≠ 0, and therefore L + G ≠ 0 , and hence in general case | d | G | /dt |≠ 0 on the segment of nominal rotation (when | L(t) |= const ). At the presence of perturbations moments Мper ≠ 0 there is a problem - what value should be time of a maneuver T (or level H0) that up to termination of maneuver the possible increase in size | G | was less R0- H0 (dependence H0 from T is the monotonously decreasing function). Though perturbations Мper can “help” the rotation of a spacecraft (in this case d | G |/dt < 0 ), but to guarantee such evolution of events throughout all interval of time [tac, tbr] is impossible. Therefore at constructing the designed program of control, we must take into account the worst scenario - to assume the perturbations Мper greatest possible in magnitude and directed against angular momentum L of spacecraft body. is the calculated (the greatest possible) magnitude of perturbation moment Мper (i.e. | Мper |< МP cal ). The increment of magnitude of gyro-system angular momentum G during spacecraft rotation with | L |= const will following
At solving the formulated problem (choice of optimal time of slew maneuver) two moments are initial - (a) slew maneuver of a spacecraft occurs according to the method [1], and (b) the stock of the angular momentum of the gyrodynes system should be maximum (at the found parameters of slew maneuver H0 and T ); last requirement allows to reduce probability of involving any other (except the gyrodynes) means of attitude control (for example, jet engines). For the case with zero boundary conditions ω(0) = ω(T)=0 only a single type of motion is realized: the first phase - acceleration of spacecraft rotation with maximal controlling moment | M |= m0 up to | L |= H0 , next the site of spacecraft motion with constant in magnitude of angular momentum | L |= H0 (with satisfaction of equalities (7)), and then the symmetric segment of spacecraft braking with maximal controlling moment | M |= m0 up to a full stop of the spacecraft ( М||L ). Changing the magnitude of angular momentum G of the system of powered gyroscopes during the slew maneuver is such that the condition is true on the segments of acceleration and braking (since the moment M of the controlling forces is much more perturbations moment Мper). And, in most cases, it is possible to assume ,where tac is the instant of termination of acceleration; tbr is the instant of the beginning of braking. For the hypothetical case when Мper = 0, acceleration of spacecraft rotation can be carried out up to situation | L |= R0 , because in this ideal case | L |= | G |, and within the interval between acceleration and braking we have d | G |/dt= 0 (here R0 is radius of the sphere entered in region S of available values of the angular momentum G of powered gyroscopes system).
In real conditions of flight Мper ≠ 0, and therefore L + G ≠ 0 , and hence in general case | d | G | /dt |≠ 0 on the segment of nominal rotation (when | L(t) |= const ). At the presence of perturbations moments Мper ≠ 0 there is a problem - what value should be time of a maneuver T (or level H0) that up to termination of maneuver the possible increase in size | G | was less R0- H0 (dependence H0 from T is the monotonously decreasing function). Though perturbations Мper can “help” the rotation of a spacecraft (in this case d | G |/dt < 0 ), but to guarantee such evolution of events throughout all interval of time [tac, tbr] is impossible. Therefore at constructing the designed program of control, we must take into account the worst scenario - to assume the perturbations Мper greatest possible in magnitude and directed against angular momentum L of spacecraft body. is the calculated (the greatest possible) magnitude of perturbation moment Мper (i.e. | Мper |< МP cal ). The increment of magnitude of gyro-system angular momentum G during spacecraft rotation with | L |= const will following
Where τac and τbr are the durations of acceleration and
braking; G = | G. Thus, the relation
should be satisfied, where R0 is the known value beforehand
preset.
At the moment of the termination of acceleration G (τac) =L (τac) (since | Мper | < < m0). “Saturation” of system of powered gyroscopes can take place in the limiting case, if the equality cal is valid. It is necessary to note, that if the time of slew maneuver T less, then probability of achievement by the moment tbr of the braking beginning of the threshold level G (t)= R0 will less, it would seem. However with reduction of time T, the required angular momentum L (τac) increases, and the stock ΔR = R0 – L (τac) decreases, that raises probability of presence of gyro-system’s “saturation” in the course of slew maneuver (probability of satisfaction of equality G= R0 increases). Here the problem of spacecraft rotation with minimum angular momentum L during given time T is very important (for that to increase the stock of angular momentum R0 – L for its use for indemnification of prospective perturbation moments Мper).
At construction of the optimum program of control, we can vary only two parameters – time of a maneuver T or magnitude of spacecraft’s angular momentum L (τac) (other characteristics are preset by conditions of slew maneuver and cannot be changed). We will write down the equation setting connection between time of rotation T, an estimation of the maximum magnitude of perturbation moments МP cal , and the computed value of spacecraft’s angular momentum L (τac). For the rotation of solid body along the trajectory which satisfies the equations (3)-(4), the equality
At the moment of the termination of acceleration G (τac) =L (τac) (since | Мper | < < m0). “Saturation” of system of powered gyroscopes can take place in the limiting case, if the equality cal is valid. It is necessary to note, that if the time of slew maneuver T less, then probability of achievement by the moment tbr of the braking beginning of the threshold level G (t)= R0 will less, it would seem. However with reduction of time T, the required angular momentum L (τac) increases, and the stock ΔR = R0 – L (τac) decreases, that raises probability of presence of gyro-system’s “saturation” in the course of slew maneuver (probability of satisfaction of equality G= R0 increases). Here the problem of spacecraft rotation with minimum angular momentum L during given time T is very important (for that to increase the stock of angular momentum R0 – L for its use for indemnification of prospective perturbation moments Мper).
At construction of the optimum program of control, we can vary only two parameters – time of a maneuver T or magnitude of spacecraft’s angular momentum L (τac) (other characteristics are preset by conditions of slew maneuver and cannot be changed). We will write down the equation setting connection between time of rotation T, an estimation of the maximum magnitude of perturbation moments МP cal , and the computed value of spacecraft’s angular momentum L (τac). For the rotation of solid body along the trajectory which satisfies the equations (3)-(4), the equality
is true, where the value SL is determined exclusively by quaternion
of a slew and inertial characteristics of a spacecraft J1, J2,
J3 [11]. Having designated L0 = | L (τac) |, and if we believe that on
the segments of acceleration and braking, the modulus of angular
momentum varies under linear law | d | L | /dt |= m , where m is
the maximum speed of varying the modulus of angular momentum,
we will receive following relationships:
Two statements of a problem are possible: (a) at the presence
of constraint
we use criterion L0 → min or МP cal T →max
; and (b) if right endpoint is free, then we receive the system of
two equations in which the time of a maneuver T is specified from
the condition МP cal → max. These equations have the following
form
Whence
The solution of last equation is
If m → ∞ , then values τac → 0, τbr → 0 and SL = L0 T; therefore
R0 - L0 = МP cal T = МP cal SL / L0, and hence
(It is obvious that L0 < R0).
It is obvious that m > МP cal , and there are two solutions of quadratic equation (in both L0 > 0); smaller value L0 corresponds to higher border T (Tmax), more big value L0 corresponds to the lower border T (Tmin, a slew maneuver for minimum time). Time T we appoint in range Tmin < T < Tmax . Outside of interval borders [Tmin, Tmax] the rotation without “unloading” of gyro-system is not guaranteed, as “saturation” can occur or because of big L0 which was imparted after acceleration of rotation (it is close to R0), owing to small time T, or because of the big duration of a stage of nominal rotation (between acceleration and braking), and, as a consequence, the perturbations accumulated up during the slew maneuver “will eat” all stock R0 – L0 of angular momentum of the gyro-system. Taking into account that m >>| Мper |, we will give the approximate estimations (precisely enough reflecting true required levels L0 and T ). Since We can assume as optimum If the magnitude МP cal is not known or can vary its value over a wide range, then we must appoint time of a maneuver T using the condition of maximum of parameter МP cal for which the inequality is satisfied. The function increases with increase of МP cal . Hence, it is possible to assume that the roots of quadratic equation in which L0 is single unknown value, are converged nearer to each other with increase of the parameter МP cal, and the range [Tmin , Tmax] concerning preferable values of the slew maneuver time T will be narrowed. Let us find such critical value of parameter МP cal (we will designate it Мcrit) at which the rotation from position Λin into position Λf is still possible without infringement of requirement | G | ≤ R0 . For this purpose, it is necessary to solve the equation With respect to МP cal (all other values in this equation are known, they were preset by conditions of the problem of optimal maneuver). As result, we have (Here, Мcrit = МP max is maximum possible perturbation); usually, max | Мper |< МP max (i.e. Мpcal ≤ МP max). With account for action of perturbations Мper having a priori unknown magnitude, by optimal values will be As a rule, . Therefore, as optimum we can assign Topt ≈ 2 SL / R0.
Have come to conclusion that Topt = 2Tfast, where Tfast is theoretically achievable lowest level-border of time of spacecraft rotation at the presence of the constraint | J ω | ≤ R0 (in these formulas SL = КС tpr, where tpr is the predicted time of the slew maneuver from the position Λin into the position Λf obtained by the simulating the spacecraft motion according to the equations (1), (3), (5) in which Lm = КС > 0).
We could expect that in optimal case the time of the slew maneuver should be twice more the time of ideal rotation (when the modulus of spacecraft angular momentum L is equal to as much as possible admissible value R0 and the perturbation moments are absent).
It is obvious that m > МP cal , and there are two solutions of quadratic equation (in both L0 > 0); smaller value L0 corresponds to higher border T (Tmax), more big value L0 corresponds to the lower border T (Tmin, a slew maneuver for minimum time). Time T we appoint in range Tmin < T < Tmax . Outside of interval borders [Tmin, Tmax] the rotation without “unloading” of gyro-system is not guaranteed, as “saturation” can occur or because of big L0 which was imparted after acceleration of rotation (it is close to R0), owing to small time T, or because of the big duration of a stage of nominal rotation (between acceleration and braking), and, as a consequence, the perturbations accumulated up during the slew maneuver “will eat” all stock R0 – L0 of angular momentum of the gyro-system. Taking into account that m >>| Мper |, we will give the approximate estimations (precisely enough reflecting true required levels L0 and T ). Since We can assume as optimum If the magnitude МP cal is not known or can vary its value over a wide range, then we must appoint time of a maneuver T using the condition of maximum of parameter МP cal for which the inequality is satisfied. The function increases with increase of МP cal . Hence, it is possible to assume that the roots of quadratic equation in which L0 is single unknown value, are converged nearer to each other with increase of the parameter МP cal, and the range [Tmin , Tmax] concerning preferable values of the slew maneuver time T will be narrowed. Let us find such critical value of parameter МP cal (we will designate it Мcrit) at which the rotation from position Λin into position Λf is still possible without infringement of requirement | G | ≤ R0 . For this purpose, it is necessary to solve the equation With respect to МP cal (all other values in this equation are known, they were preset by conditions of the problem of optimal maneuver). As result, we have (Here, Мcrit = МP max is maximum possible perturbation); usually, max | Мper |< МP max (i.e. Мpcal ≤ МP max). With account for action of perturbations Мper having a priori unknown magnitude, by optimal values will be As a rule, . Therefore, as optimum we can assign Topt ≈ 2 SL / R0.
Have come to conclusion that Topt = 2Tfast, where Tfast is theoretically achievable lowest level-border of time of spacecraft rotation at the presence of the constraint | J ω | ≤ R0 (in these formulas SL = КС tpr, where tpr is the predicted time of the slew maneuver from the position Λin into the position Λf obtained by the simulating the spacecraft motion according to the equations (1), (3), (5) in which Lm = КС > 0).
We could expect that in optimal case the time of the slew maneuver should be twice more the time of ideal rotation (when the modulus of spacecraft angular momentum L is equal to as much as possible admissible value R0 and the perturbation moments are absent).
Conclusions
Control of spacecraft attitude using inertial actuators (in
particular, by system of powered gyroscopes) is carried out often
enough. Efficiency of use of inertial devices (control moment
gyroscopes) in regime of spatial rotation is defined by not only
the accepted algorithm of spacecraft attitude control but by time
of the ending the reorientations maneuver. For the accepting the
saturation of gyro-system its total angular momentum should
not exceed admissible value (the slew maneuver is carried out
due to redistribution of the angular momentum between the
system of gyrodynes and spacecraft body). For situation that
rotation will occur without the unloading of gyro-system,
the modulus of angular momentum of spacecraft body should
be obviously less radius of the sphere entered in region of
available values of the angular momentum of gyro-system. The
reorientation duration in many cases can become critical factor.
We have formulated the following problem: it is necessary to
define such duration of slew maneuver that during spacecraft
motion around the centre of mass the angular momentum
vector of gyrodynes system was within region of admissible
values, this fact will exclude necessity of “unloading” of gyro-
system and will provide executing of slew maneuver without
the applying of other means for attitude control (for example,
jet engines). The solving the specified problem allows to make
spatial turns of a spacecraft using only the control moment
gyroscopes. The knowledge of fit range of preferable duration
of the slew maneuver helps to plan correctly the flight program
of spacecraft controlled by the powered gyroscopes, and to
appoint correctly time characteristics of main operations
(including dynamic operations).
It is known that the method of orientation [1] is optimum at control with use inertial actuators. In the most general case the slew maneuver is partitioned in three characteristic phases: acceleration of the spacecraft (the imparting to it the angular velocity) up to a given magnitude of angular momentum, rotation of the spacecraft with constant modulus of angular momentum, and cancellation of angular velocity down to zero. The problem of attitude control is reduced to solving the three problems: the fastest imparting to a spacecraft the required angular momentum, rotation of the spacecraft with a calculated velocity of motion, and maximum possible deceleration (damping) of the spacecraft. At the segments of acceleration and braking, the controlling moment is maximum possible and parallel to the angular momentum vector, which ensures a minimum time of reaching the present value of the spacecraft angular momentum (or reduction of available angular momentum down to zero). At the stage between acceleration and braking, the spacecraft rotates with angular momentum having constant modulus; the controlling moment is formed using the condition that the spacecraft attitude motion should proceed along the prescribed trajectory of rotation determined by the rated vector of a turn and preset value of the angular momentum modulus. During stages of an intensive gaining and suppressing the angular momentum, the modulus of controlling moment remains to constants. This circumstance allows us to use the described control method of slew maneuver in a case when the controlling moment is limited by sphere. Basing on properties of optimal rotation, the described control method of spacecraft maneuver is exclusively important to apply in cases when the controlling moment is limited by sphere [1].
Optimization of spacecraft reorientation when motion is controlled by inertial actuators (for example, gyrodynes) includes two main tasks. First task is traditional optimization problem which consists in finding the mode of rotation with minimal magnitude of angular momentum. Second problem is new; it consists in calculating the most correct duration of slew maneuver under which necessity of “unloading” of gyro-system is excluded. In this paper, both problems were successfully solved. Numerical example and results of mathematical simulation of optimal spacecraft rotation, as illustration in visual form, are given. They add the made theoretical descriptions and confirm the efficiency and practical feasibility of the control method developed.
It is known that the method of orientation [1] is optimum at control with use inertial actuators. In the most general case the slew maneuver is partitioned in three characteristic phases: acceleration of the spacecraft (the imparting to it the angular velocity) up to a given magnitude of angular momentum, rotation of the spacecraft with constant modulus of angular momentum, and cancellation of angular velocity down to zero. The problem of attitude control is reduced to solving the three problems: the fastest imparting to a spacecraft the required angular momentum, rotation of the spacecraft with a calculated velocity of motion, and maximum possible deceleration (damping) of the spacecraft. At the segments of acceleration and braking, the controlling moment is maximum possible and parallel to the angular momentum vector, which ensures a minimum time of reaching the present value of the spacecraft angular momentum (or reduction of available angular momentum down to zero). At the stage between acceleration and braking, the spacecraft rotates with angular momentum having constant modulus; the controlling moment is formed using the condition that the spacecraft attitude motion should proceed along the prescribed trajectory of rotation determined by the rated vector of a turn and preset value of the angular momentum modulus. During stages of an intensive gaining and suppressing the angular momentum, the modulus of controlling moment remains to constants. This circumstance allows us to use the described control method of slew maneuver in a case when the controlling moment is limited by sphere. Basing on properties of optimal rotation, the described control method of spacecraft maneuver is exclusively important to apply in cases when the controlling moment is limited by sphere [1].
Optimization of spacecraft reorientation when motion is controlled by inertial actuators (for example, gyrodynes) includes two main tasks. First task is traditional optimization problem which consists in finding the mode of rotation with minimal magnitude of angular momentum. Second problem is new; it consists in calculating the most correct duration of slew maneuver under which necessity of “unloading” of gyro-system is excluded. In this paper, both problems were successfully solved. Numerical example and results of mathematical simulation of optimal spacecraft rotation, as illustration in visual form, are given. They add the made theoretical descriptions and confirm the efficiency and practical feasibility of the control method developed.
Acknowledgements
The author would like to express greatest thanks to
colleagues and specialists from Korolev Rocket Space
Corporation (in Russia), and to all participants of the seminars
and International conferences on optimization problems.
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