Control Analysis for MACE: Methods and Limitations

Abstract

Analysis of a control system design prior to implementation is critical for determining expected stability and performance of the true system. For the Middeck Active Control Experiment (MACE), a Shuttle Middeck experiment which flew on STS-67 in March 1995, two distinct analysis procedures are followed. One utilizes open loop data which is only available during the flight. The other involves development and use of an uncertainty model and a mixed-μ analysis to test for stability over the full range of uncertainty. Using the extensive on-orbit data accumulated during the 14-day Shuttle mission, the effectiveness of both procedures is assessed