Investigation of attitude control actuators for large flexible space structures using inverse simulation

Abstract

This paper proposes a modular mathematical model and Inverse Simulation methods to investigate a variety of attitude control actuators for Large Space Structures. The modular model is developed to allow for different actuator types to be easily implemented and combined, facilitating investigations into a variety of actuator configurations. The generic Inverse Simulation method allows for the inverse dynamic solution to be found for any configuration of actuators without any modifications to the solution process, facilitating rapid experimentation. Reaction wheels, magnetorquers, and solar pressure torque actuators are all considered with mass scaling laws ensuring that each actuator type is compared realistically. The investigations consider the limitations of each actuator type and the deformations experienced by the structure during a large slew manoeuvre. It is found that the distribution of smaller torques across the Large Space Structure reduces deformation and combinations of different actuator types, instead of a single type of actuator, allow for a good compromise between mass, power and structural deformation.