The Control Theory of Flexible and Articulated Spacecraft.

Abstract

This report summarizes work done on the dynamics and control of flexible and articulated spacecraft. The combined dynamical effects of elasticity and a rotating reference frame have been explored for structure in a zero gravity environment. A simple yet general approach to modeling was developed, and applied to analyze the dynamics of a specific prototypical structure. The effects of energy dissipation were included and studied in depth for a model problem. Equilibria, bifurcations, and asymptotic stability were analyzed in some carefully chosen examples which capture the essential general features of nonlinear distributed parameter models of rotating elastic structures. Keywords: Classical mechanics; Rotating reference frames; Rotating elastic media.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 15, 1986
Accession Number
ADA174880

Entities

People

  • John Baillieul
  • Mark Levi

Organizations

  • Boston University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Angular Momentum
  • Control Theory
  • Coordinate Systems
  • Differential Equations
  • Dynamics
  • Elastic Properties
  • Engineering
  • Equations
  • Equations Of Motion
  • Jet Propulsion
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Mechanics
  • Momentum
  • Spacecraft
  • Theorems
  • Universities

Readers

  • Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
  • Robotics and Automation.
  • Structural Dynamics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Spacecraft Maneuvers