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The Mini-Mast CSI testbed: Lessons learnedThe Mini-Mast testbed was one of the first large scale Controls-Structure-Interaction (CSI) systems used to evaluate state-of-the-art methodology in flexible structure control. Now that all the testing at Langley Research Center has been completed, a look back is warranted to evaluate the program. This paper describes some of the experiences and technology development studies by NASA, university, and industry investigators. Lessons learned are presented from three categories: the testbed development, control methods, and the operation of a guest investigator program. It is shown how structural safety margins provided a realistic environment to simulate on-orbit CSI research, even though they also reduced the research flexibility afforded to investigators. The limited dynamic coupling between the bending and torsion modes of the cantilevered test article resulted in highly successful SISO and MIMO controllers. However, until accurate models were obtained for the torque wheel actuators, sensors, filters, and the structure itself, most controllers were unstable. Controls research from this testbed should be applicable to cantilevered appendages of future large space structures.
Document ID
19930009630
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Tanner, Sharon E.
(NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Belvin, W. Keith
(NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Horta, Lucas G.
(NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Pappa, R. S.
(NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Date Acquired
September 6, 2013
Publication Date
February 1, 1993
Publication Information
Publication: The Fifth NASA(DOD Controls-Structures Interaction Technology Conference, Part 1
Subject Category
Spacecraft Design, Testing And Performance
Accession Number
93N18819
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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