Model-Based Design and Testbed for CubeSat Attitude Determination and Control System with Magnetic Actuation
Source abstract
Abstract
This study introduces a robust model-based framework designed for the verification and validation (V&V) of Attitude Determination and Control Systems (ADCSs) in nanosatellites, focusing on magnetic actuation while still being applicable to larger spacecraft platforms. By employing Model-in-the-Loop (MIL), Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), Processor-in-the-Loop (PIL), and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) methodologies, this framework enables a thorough and systematic approach to testing and validation. The framework facilitates the assessment of long-term maneuvers, addressing challenges such as initial small-attitude errors and restricted 3D movements. Two specific maneuvers are evaluated: detumbling and nadir pointing, utilizing quaternions and a comprehensive suite of sensors, including six sun sensors, a three-axis magnetometer, a three-axis gyroscope, GPS, and three magnetorquers. The methodologies—MIL, SIL, PIL, and HIL—integrate the behaviors of digital sensors, analog signals, and astrodynamic perturbations. Based on an optimized SIL environment, Monte Carlo simulations were performed to optimize control gains for nadir pointing, achieving a mean pointing accuracy of 11.69° (MIL) and 18.22° (PIL), and an angular velocity norm of 0.0022 rad/s for detumbling. The HIL environment demonstrated a mean pointing accuracy of 9.96° and an angular velocity norm of 0.0024 rad/s. This comprehensive framework significantly advances the design and verification processes for nanosatellite ADCSs, enhancing the reliability and performance of nanosatellite missions.
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Research context
OpenAlex topics: Inertial Sensor and Navigation · Spacecraft Design and Technology · Space Satellite Systems and Control
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
School of Astronautics, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
UN Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education in Asia and the Pacific (China), Beijing 100191, China
Centro de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Ingeniería Mecatrónica, Universidad Católica Boliviana San Pablo, La Paz 0000, Bolivia
School of Instrumentation Science and Optoelectronic Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
Funding
CAST, “The Belt and Road” International Science and Technology Organization Cooperation Founding · BIMT, Tongxin Program Founding
References (53)
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