MMU (Manned Maneuvering Unit) Task Simulator.

Abstract

This paper describes simplified mathematical models of the Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) used in the USAFA Proximity Operations Simulator for the VAX 11/780 and the Evans and Sutherland PS 300 computers. This simulator serves as a learning aid for cadets studying orbital dynamics and MMU mission planning and as a research platform for the Department of Astronautics. The Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) Proximity Operations Simulator is a nine degrees-of-freedom trajectory integrator (six degrees of freedom for the MMU and three degrees of freedom for the target) which generates digital and graphical data to describe relative motion of the MMU and a free-flying target. This motion is obtained by applying the Clohessy-Wiltshire equations for terminal rendezvous/docking with the earth modeled as a uniform sphere and aerodynamic forces ignored. MMU position relative to target is computed by a first-order Euler integrator which uses quaternions to define the rotational state. The target is modeled as a Space Transportation System (STS) Orbiter. The MMU is treated as a rigid body whose mass properties (gross weight, moments and products of inertia, and center of gravity location) are set within the program and remain constant for the entire simulation.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 15, 1986
Accession Number
ADA169552

Entities

People

  • Salvatore Alfano

Organizations

  • United States Air Force Academy

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Air Force
  • Astronautics
  • Classification
  • Computers
  • Coordinate Systems
  • Equations
  • Equations Of Motion
  • Mathematical Models
  • Orbits
  • Plastic Explosives
  • Relative Motion
  • Simulations
  • Simulators
  • Space Transportation
  • United States
  • United States Air Force Academy

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Aviation Science / Aeronautics.
  • Robotics and Automation.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris
  • Space - Spacecraft Maneuvers