Minimum attainable RMS attitude error using co-located rate sensors

A closed form analytical expression for the minimum attainable attitude error (as well as the error rate) in a flexible beam by feedback control using co-located rate sensors is announced. For simplicity, researchers consider a beam clamped at one end with an offset mass (antenna) at the other end where the controls and sensors are located. Both control moment generators and force actuators are provided. The results apply to any beam-like lattice-type truss, and provide the kind of performance criteria needed under CSI - Controls-Stuctures-Integrated optimization.