Liapunov stability analysis of hybrid dynamical systems with multi-elastic domains.

This paper presents a Liapunov stability theory applicable to hybrid systems with multi-elastic domains. The mathematical formulation consists of a simultaneous set of ordinary and partial differential equations. A new stability theorem, particularly suited to such hybrid systems, is introduced. To predict the system stability by means of the theorem, it is necessary to construct a functional k, where k is free of spatial derivatives and bounding the Hamiltonian H from below. The conditions under which the construction of such a functional is possible are shown. As an application of the theory, the attitude stability of an earth-pointing satellite with multi-elastic domains is investigated and closed-form stability criteria derived.