Control of large flexible space structures (Q1187693)

This important and timely book introduces the problems encountered in attempting to control large-scale flexible structures. Such problems, primarily motivated by aerospace problems, also ocur in other areas, such as structural engineering and soil mechanics, as well as in thermal- hydraulics. Consequently, the book will be of interest to researchers and graduate students in a number of disciplines, although it has the most direct application to problems in the space sciences. The book begins with an introduction to typical models of space structures developed from finite-element analysis. Such an approach leads to ordinary differential equation models, although the development of infinite-dimensional models is also briefly considered. Next, the problem of controlling such models is considered, with an emphasis on precise attitude control. Two approaches are considered: a ``dissipative'' controller that relies on a distributed network of multiple sensors and actuators at the same or close locations; and the development of linear- quadratic-Gaussian type controllers. Finally, two related issues are discussed for the large-scale models: the parameter identification problem and the problem of large attitude-angle maneuvers. Areas for future research are also presented.