An application of fuzzy logic control to a gimballed payload on a space platform

Abstract

This paper will present results of applying two autonomous fuzzy controllers to a dynamically coupled system. The system consists of a space platform and a gimballed payload. The controllers are developed with the systems decoupled. Parametric studies are performed on the support limits for the error, change-in-error, and control. These parametric variations provide insight into satisfactorily tuning the controllers. The controllers were compared to controllers developed using Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) control design. The controllers are used to perform slew maneuvers and disturbance rejection. A design procedure using constraints due to hardware or software specification is also examined. When error and control support limits are specified, tuning the fuzzy controller is made relatively easy. The systems were coupled and the response of the payload and platform were examined for commanded payload trajectories and impulses applied to the platform. The fuzzy controllers performed very well in all cases.