Small satellite modelling and three-axis magnetorquer-based stabilisation using fuzzy logical control

Abstract

Recently small satellites have become increasingly popular because of their ability to provide educational institutes with the chance to design, construct, and test their spacecraft from beginning to the possible launch due to the low launching cost and development of microelectronics (Figure 1). Clearly, using only electromagnetic coils instead of different types of actuators will serve the purpose of weight reduction where every grams counts. But some restrictions described in the paper limit utilising only “Electromagnetic” actuation for 3D stabilisation and adversely affects the efficiency of the controller. However, there are some theories developed recently that have made the aforementioned purpose feasible. In this paper a new control method based on Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC) is presented that keeps the satellite in desired conditions only by electromagnetic coils. More precisely, an approach of Fuzzy control which is incorporated with electromagnetic actuation is presented for the in-orbit attitude control of a small satellite. The design is developed to stabilize the spacecraft against disturbances with a three-axis stabilizing capability. The paper also describes the required hardware and the design and development of the magnetic torquers.