EXPERIMENTAL VERIFICATION STUDIES OF FINITE-STATE ATTITUDE CONTROLLERS.
Abstract
This report presents the results of experimental studies undertaken to verify the stability of the finite-state controllers described in a previous report. Verification was partly provided by an analog computer study. This study demonstrated the correctness of the synthesis methods and provided confirmation of the basic premise of relegating system dynamics to a secondary role. The unchanged single flip-flop attitude controller also stabilized a system described by a Mathieu equation, and the basic second order system with time lags and time delays. A low friction single degree-of-freedom platform was constructed as a space vehicle model to provide additional experimental verification. Because the platform was not balanced, pendulous action was more than enough to overcome the slight friction present. As a result, the uncontrolled platform was slightly unstable, providing a more severe test than the mathematical model. A mosaic attitude detector was simulated with photo-diodes and a coded shutter, and the reaction jets were simulated by solenoid driven air jets, with the air supply tank mounted upon the platform. A single flip-flop controller was constructed using standard NOR gates. The system was successfully controlled and system operation was as expected. Successful operation was achieved on the first attempt, thereby demonstrating the value of the controller simplicity. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0820630
Entities
People
- Charles R. Walli
- Irving S. Reed
- Robert B. Mcghee
Organizations
- University of Southern California