Author(s)

C.D. Hall

Abstract

In this paper we present some novel results regarding the dynamics of gy- rostats containing N axisymmetric rotors subject to control torques applied by the platform. The particular class of maneuvers we are interested in are termed "stationary-platform" maneuvers, because they are based on the notion of keeping the platform almost stationary throughout the maneu- ver. The basic idea behind this class of maneuvers is to control the rotors in such a way that the maneuver remains near a branch of equilibrium motions for which the platform angular velocity, w, is zero. Of course, u> is not actually zero, but it does remain small provided that the internal torques are small. We develop the equations of motion, and then discuss the stationary-platform conditions, which lead to the developmen

Keywords