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At least 703 records · Page 39

A dual-mode disturbance-accommodating controller for the Hubble Space Telescope

Cyclic thermal expansions and mechanical stiction effects in the Solar Arrays on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) are triggering repeated occurrences of damped, relaxation-type flex-body vibrations of the solar arrays. Those solar array vibrations are, in turn, causing unwanted, oscillating disturbance torques on the HST main body, which cause unwanted deviations of the telescope from its specified pointing direction. In this paper we propose two strategies one can adopt in designing a telescope-pointing controller to cope with the aforementioned disturbances: (1) a `total isolation' (TI) control strategy whereby the HST controller torques are designed to adaptively counteract and cancel-out the persistent disturbing torques that are causing the unwanted telescope motions, and (2) an `array damping' (AD) control strategy whereby the HST controller torques are used to actively augment the natural dampening of the solar array vibrations and the attendant telescope motions, between triggerings of the stiction-related flex-body relaxation oscillations. Using the principles of Disturbance-Accommodating Control (DAC) Theory a dual-mode controller for a generic, planar-motion (single-axis) model of the HST is proposed. This controller incorporates both the TI and AD modes of disturbance-accommodation. Simulation studies of the closed-loop system using generic parameter values clearly indicate, qualitatively, the enhanced pointing-performance such a controller can achieve.

Addington, Stewart↗

Project MEDSAT: The design of a remote sensing platform for malaria research and control

Project MEDSAT was proposed with the specific goal of designing a satellite to remotely sense pertinent information useful in establishing strategies to control malaria. The 340 kg MEDSAT satellite is to be inserted into circular earth orbit aboard the Pegasus Air-Launched Space Booster at an inclination of 21 degrees and an altitude of 473 km. It is equipped with a synthetic aperture radar and a visible thermal/infrared sensor to remotely sense conditions at the target area of Chiapas, Mexico. The orbit is designed so that MEDSAT will pass over the target site twice each day. The data from each scan will be downlinked to Hawaii for processing, resulting in maps indicating areas of high malaria risk. These will be distributed to health officials at the target site. A relatively inexpensive launch by Pegasus and a design using mainly proven, off-the-shelf technology permit a low mission cost, while innovations in the satellite controls and the scientific instruments allow a fairly complex mission.

Source record↗

Seminar on Understanding Digital Control and Analysis in Vibration Test Systems, part 2

A number of techniques for dealing with important technical aspects of the random vibration control problem are described. These include the generation of pseudo-random and true random noise, the control spectrum estimation problem, the accuracy/speed tradeoff, and control correction strategies. System hardware, the operator-system interface, safety features, and operational capabilities of sophisticated digital random vibration control systems are also discussed.

Source record↗

The Efficacy of Air Pollution Control Efforts: Evidence from AURA

Observations of NO2, SO2, and H2CO from OMI on AURA provide an excellent record of pollutant concentrations for the past decade. Abatement strategies to control criteria pollutants including ozone and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) have met with varying degrees of success. Sulfur controls had a profound impact on local SO2 concentrations and a measurable impact on PM2.5. Although substantial effort has gone into VOC control, ozone in the eastern US has responded dramatically to NOx emissions controls.

efficacy of air pollution↗

Controller reduction for effective interdisciplinary design of active structures

Control problems of large aerospace structures are intrinsically interdisciplinary and require strategies which address the complete interaction between flexible structures, electromechanical actuators and sensors, and feedback control algorithms. Current research and future directions which will require an interdisciplinary team effort in dynamics, control and optimization of such structures are being surveyed. It is generally agreed that the dynamics of space structures require large scale discrete modeling, resulting in thousands of discrete unknowns. Proven control strategies, on the other hand, employ a low order controller that is based on a reduced order model of structures. Integration of such low order controllers and large scale dynamics models often leads to serious deterioration of the closed loop stability margin and even instability. To alleviate this stability deterioration while low order controllers remain effective, the following approach was investigated: (1) retain low order controllers based on reduced order models of structures as the basic control strategy; (2) introduce a compensator that will directly account for the deterioration of stability margin due to controller-structure integration; and (3) assess overall performance of the integrated control structure system by developing measures of suboptimality in the combination of (1) and (2). The benefits include: simplicity in the design of basic controllers, thus facilitating the optimization of structure control interactions; increased understanding of the roles of the compensator so as to modify the structure as well as the basic controller, if necessary, for improved performance; and adaptability to localize controllers by viewing the compensator as a systems integration filter.

Balas, Mark J.↗

Fault Accommodation in Control of Flexible Systems

New synthesis techniques for the design of fault accommodating controllers for flexible systems are developed. Three robust control design strategies, static dissipative, dynamic dissipative and mu-synthesis, are used in the approach. The approach provides techniques for designing controllers that maximize, in some sense, the tolerance of the closed-loop system against faults in actuators and sensors, while guaranteeing performance robustness at a specified performance level, measured in terms of the proximity of the closed-loop poles to the imaginary axis (the degree of stability). For dissipative control designs, nonlinear programming is employed to synthesize the controllers, whereas in mu-synthesis, the traditional D-K iteration is used. To demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed techniques, they are applied to the control design of a structural model of a flexible laboratory test structure.

Maghami, Peiman G.↗

Investigation of energy management strategies for photovoltaic systems - A predictive control algorithm

The present investigation is concerned with the formulation of energy management strategies for stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) systems, taking into account a basic control algorithm for a possible predictive, (and adaptive) controller. The control system controls the flow of energy in the system according to the amount of energy available, and predicts the appropriate control set-points based on the energy (insolation) available by using an appropriate system model. Aspects of adaptation to the conditions of the system are also considered. Attention is given to a statistical analysis technique, the analysis inputs, the analysis procedure, and details regarding the basic control algorithm.

Cull, R. C.↗

Mitigation of pulsed RFI via automatic gain control

Three automatic gain control (AGC) strategies and their potential capabilities for mitigation of pulsed radio frequency interference (RFI) over a coded, nonlinear channel are examined. The first updates the AGC control voltage once each symbol interval in accordance with a prespecified criterion. The second implementation is designed to first detect high level RFI and then appropriately update its gain. The final implementation is a wideband device which updates its gain once each symbol interval by reducing the gain in direct proportion to a suitable power measurement. Computed results treat pulsed noise and pulsed CW RFI and compare performances in terms of bit error rate (BER) at the output of a Viterbi decoder.

Chang, R. W.-S.↗

Manipulation strategies for massive space payloads

Control for the bracing strategy is being examined. It was concluded earlier that trajectory planning must be improved to best achieve the bracing motion. Very interesting results were achieved which enable the inverse dynamics of flexible arms to be calculated for linearized motion in a more efficient manner than previously published. The desired motion of the end point beginning at t=0 and ending at t=t sub f is used to calculate the required torque at the joint. The solution is separated into a causal function that is zero for t is less than 0 and an accusal function which is zero for t is greater than t sub f. A number of alternative end point trajectories were explored in terms of the peak torque required, the amount of anticipatory action, and other issues. The single link case is the immediate subject and an experimental verification of that case is being performed. Modeling with experimental verification of closed chain dynamics continues. Modeling effort has pointed out inaccuracies that result from the choice of numerical techniques used to incorporate the closed chain constraints when modeling our experimental prototype RALF (Robotic Arm Large and Flexible). Results were compared to TREETOPS, a multi body code. The experimental verification work is suggesting new ways to make comparisons with systems having structural linearity and joint and geometric nonlinearity. The generation of inertial forces was studied with a small arm that will damp the large arm's vibration.

Book, Wayne J.↗

A nonlinear strategy for sensor based vehicle path control

A method of transverse control which makes use of nonlinear formulations is presented. The strategy is utilized to stabilize a vehicle. The vehicle is autonomously guided and takes its control inputs from an optical sensing system. Additionally, the velocity of the vehicle is dictated by a longitudinal controller, which is also discussed.

Mayr, R.↗

Towards Human-Friendly Efficient Control of Multi-Robot Teams

This paper explores means to increase efficiency in performing tasks with multi-robot teams, in the context of natural Human-Multi-Robot Interfaces (HMRI) for command and control. The motivating scenario is an emergency evacuation by a transport convoy of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) that have to traverse, in shortest time, an unknown terrain. In the experiments the operator commands, in minimal time, a group of rovers through a maze. The efficiency of performing such tasks depends on both, the levels of robots' autonomy, and the ability of the operator to command and control the team. The paper extends the classic framework of levels of autonomy (LOA), to levels/hierarchy of autonomy characteristic of Groups (G-LOA), and uses it to determine new strategies for control. An UGVoriented command language (UGVL) is defined, and a mapping is performed from the human-friendly gesture-based HMRI into the UGVL. The UGVL is used to control a team of 3 robots, exploring the efficiency of different G-LOA; specifically, by (a) controlling each robot individually through the maze, (b) controlling a leader and cloning its controls to followers, and (c) controlling the entire group. Not surprisingly, commands at increased G-LOA lead to a faster traverse, yet a number of aspects are worth discussing in this context.

multi-robot control↗

Environmental Control and Life Support Integration Strategy for 6-Crew Operations

The International Space Station (ISS) crew complement has increased in size from 3 to 6 crew members. In order to support this increase in crew on ISS, the United States on-orbit Segment (USOS) has been outfitted with a suite of regenerative Environmental Control and Life Support (ECLS) hardware including an Oxygen Generation System (OGS), Waste and Hygiene Compartment (WHC), and a Water Recovery System (WRS). The WRS includes the Urine Processor Assembly (UPA) and the Water Processor Assembly (WPA). With this additional life support hardware, the ISS has achieved full redundancy in its on-orbit life support system between the t OS and Russian Segment (RS). The additional redundancy created by the Regenerative ECLS hardware creates the opportunity for independent support capabilities between segments, and for the first time since the start of ISS, the necessity to revise Life Support strategy agreements. Independent operating strategies coupled with the loss of the Space Shuttle supply and return capabilities in 2010 offer new and unique challenges. This paper will discuss the evolution of the ISS Life Support hardware strategy in support of 6-Crew on ISS, as well as the continued work that is necessary to ensure the support of crew and ISS Program objectives through the life of station

Duchesne, Stephanie M.↗

Contamination Mitigation Strategies for Long Duration Human Spaceflight Missions

Contamination control issues are particularly challenging for long-term human spaceflight and are associated with the search for life, dynamic environmental conditions, human-robotic-environment interaction, sample collection and return, biological processes, waste management, long-term environmental disturbance, etc. These issues impact mission success, human health, planetary protection, and research and discovery. Mitigation and control techniques and strategies may include and integrate long-term environmental monitoring and reporting, contamination control and planetary protection protocols, habitation site design, habitat design, and surface exploration and traverse pathways and area access planning.

enviroment↗

Environmental Control and Life Support Integration Strategy for 6-Crew Operations Stephanie Duchesne

The International Space Station (ISS) crew compliment has increased in size from 3 to 6 crew members . In order to support this increase in crew on ISS, the United States on-orbit Segment (USOS) has been outfitted with a suite of regenerative Environmental Control and Life Support (ECLS) hardware including an Oxygen Generation System(OGS), Waste and Hygiene Compartment (WHC), and a Water Recovery System (WRS). The WRS includes the Urine Processor Assembly (UPA) and the Water Processor Assembly (WPA). With this additional life support hardware, the ISS has achieved full redundancy in its on-orbit life support system between the USOS and Russian Segment (RS). The additional redundancy created by the Regenerative ECLS hardware creates the opportunity for independent support capabilities between segments, and for the first time since the start of ISS, the necessity to revise Life Support strategy agreements. Independent operating strategies coupled with the loss of the Space Shuttle supply and return capabilities in 2010 offer new and unique challenges. This paper will discuss the evolution of the ISS Life Support hardware strategy in support of 6-Crew on ISS, as well as the continued work that is necessary to ensure the support of crew and ISS Program objectives through the life of station.

Duchesne, Stephanie M.↗

Integrated Control Design for A Partially Turboelectric Aircraft Propulsion System

Electrified Aircraft Propulsion (EAP) holds great potential for reducing aviation emissions and fuel burn. A variety of EAP architectures have been proposed including partially-turboelectric configurations that combine turbofan engines with motor-driven propulsors. Such architectures exhibit coupling between subsystems and thus require an integrated control solution. To address this need, this paper presents an integrated control design strategy for a commercial single-aisle partially-turboelectric aircraft concept consisting of two wing-mounted turbofan engines and an electric motor driven tailfan propulsor. Within this architecture the turbofans serve the dual purpose of generating thrust and supplying mechanical offtake power used to generate electricity for the tailfan motor. The propulsion control system is tasked with coordinating turbofan and tailfan operation under both steady-state and transient scenarios. The paper introduces a linear state-space representation of the architecture reflecting the coupling between the turbofan and tailfan subsystems along with loop transfer functions reflecting open- and closed-loop system dynamics. Also discussed is an applied strategy for scheduling the tailfan setpoint command based on the average sensed fan speed of the two turbofans. This approach ensures synchronized operation of the turbofan and tailfan subsystems while also allowing the turbofan fuel control design to be simplified. Performance of the integrated control design is assessed through a real-time hardware-in-the-loop test conducted at the NASA Electric Aircraft Testbed. During this test a scaled version of the electrical system and turbomachinery shaft dynamics were implemented in electrical machine hardware and evaluated under closed-loop control. Results from this facility test are presented to illustrate the efficacy of the applied integrated control design approach under steady-state and transient scenarios including a full-flight mission profile.

Electrified Aircraft Propulsion↗

Integrated Control Design for A Partially Turboelectric Aircraft Propulsion System

Electrified Aircraft Propulsion (EAP) holds great potential for reducing aviation emissions and fuel burn. A variety of EAP architectures have been proposed including partially-turboelectric configurations that combine turbofan engines with motor-driven propulsors. Such architectures exhibit coupling between subsystems and thus require an integrated control solution. To address this need, this paper presents an integrated control design strategy for a commercial single-aisle partially-turboelectric aircraft concept consisting of two wing-mounted turbofan engines and an electric motor driven tailfan propulsor. Within this architecture the turbofans serve the dual purpose of generating thrust and supplying mechanical offtake power used to generate electricity for the tailfan motor. The propulsion control system is tasked with coordinating turbofan and tailfan operation under both steady-state and transient scenarios. The paper introduces a linear state-space representation of the architecture reflecting the coupling between the turbofan and tailfan subsystems along with loop transfer functions reflecting open- and closed-loop system dynamics. Also discussed is an applied strategy for scheduling the tailfan setpoint command based on the average sensed fan speed of the two turbofans. This approach ensures synchronized operation of the turbofan and tailfan subsystems while also allowing the turbofan fuel control design to be simplified. Performance of the integrated control design is assessed through a real-time hardware-in-the-loop test conducted at the NASA Electric Aircraft Testbed. During this test a scaled version of the electrical system and turbomachinery shaft dynamics were implemented in electrical machine hardware and evaluated under closed-loop control. Results from this facility test are presented to illustrate the efficacy of the applied integrated control design approach under steady-state and transient scenarios including a full-flight mission profile.

Electrified Aircraft Propulsion↗

Integrated Control Design for A Partially Turboelectric Aircraft Propulsion System

Electrified Aircraft Propulsion (EAP) holds great potential for reducing aviation emissions and fuel burn. A variety of EAP architectures have been proposed including partially-turboelectric configurations that combine turbofan engines with motor-driven propulsors. Such architectures exhibit coupling between subsystems and thus require an integrated control solution. To address this need, this paper presents an integrated control design strategy for a commercial single-aisle partially-turboelectric aircraft concept consisting of two wing-mounted turbofan engines and an electric motor driven tailfan propulsor. Within this architecture the turbofans serve the dual purpose of generating thrust and supplying mechanical offtake power used to generate electricity for the tailfan motor. The propulsion control system is tasked with coordinating turbofan and tailfan operation under both steady-state and transient scenarios. The paper introduces a linear state-space representation of the architecture reflecting the coupling between the turbofan and tailfan subsystems along with loop transfer functions reflecting open- and closed-loop system dynamics. Also discussed is an applied strategy for scheduling the tailfan setpoint command based on the average sensed fan speed of the two turbofans. This approach ensures synchronized operation of the turbofan and tailfan subsystems while also allowing the turbofan fuel control design to be simplified. Performance of the integrated control design is assessed through a real-time hardware-in-the-loop test conducted at the NASA Electric Aircraft Testbed. During this test a scaled version of the electrical system and turbomachinery shaft dynamics were implemented in electrical machine hardware and evaluated under closed-loop control. Results from this facility test are presented to illustrate the efficacy of the applied integrated control design approach under steady-state and transient scenarios including a full-flight mission profile.

Electrified Aircraft Propulsion↗

Environmental Control and Life Support Integration Strategy for 6-Crew Operations

The International Space Station (ISS) crew compliment will be increasing in size from 3 to 6 crew members in the summer of 2009. In order to support this increase in crew on ISS, the United States on-orbit Segment (USOS) has been outfitted with a suite of regenerative Environmental Control and Life Support (ECLS) hardware including an Oxygen Generation System(OGS), Waste and Hygiene Compartment (WHC), and a Water Recovery System (WRS). The WRS includes the Urine Processor Assembly (UPA) and the Water Processor Assembly (WPA). A critical step in advancing to a 6Crew support capability on ISS is a full checkedout and verification of the Regenerative ECLS hardware. With a successful checkout, the ISS will achieve full redundancy in its onorbit life support system between the USOS and Russian Segment (RS). The additional redundancy created by the Regenerative ECLS hardware creates the opportunity for independent support capabilities between segments, and for the first time since the start of ISS, the necessity to revise Life Support strategy agreements. Independent operating strategies coupled with the loss of the Space Shuttle supply and return capabilities in 2010 offers additional challenges. These challenges create the need for a higher level of onorbit consumables reserve to ensure crewmember life support during a system failure. This paper will discuss the evolution of the ISS Life Support hardware strategy in support of 6Crew on ISS, as well as the continued work which will be necessary to ensure the support of crew and ISS Program objectives through the life of station.

FROM↗