Model-Based Design and Testbed for CubeSat Attitude Determination and Control System with Magnetic Actuation

• Published in: Applied sciences Vol. 14; no. 14; p. 6065
• Main Authors: Ticona Coaquira, Franklin Josue, Wang, Xinsheng, Vidaurre Torrez, Karen Wendy, Mamani Quiroga, Misael Jhamel, Silva Plata, Miguel Angel, Luna Verdueta, Grace Abigail, Murillo Quispe, Sandro Estiven, Auza Banegas, Guillermo Javier, Antezana Lopez, Franz Pablo, Rojas, Arturo
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Basel MDPI AG 01.07.2024
• Subjects: Accuracy; Algorithms; attitude determination and control system; Calibration; Cameras; Control systems; Controllers; CubeSat; Deep learning; Design; Embedded systems; Environmental monitoring; Forest & brush fires; Ground stations; hardware in the loop; Magnetic fields; model-based design; Monte Carlo method; Sensors; Simulation; Simulation methods; verification; Bolivia; China
• ISSN: 2076-3417; 2076-3417
• DOI: 10.3390/app14146065

This study introduces a robust model-based framework designed for the verification and validation (V&V) of Attitude Determination and Control Systems (ADCSs) in nanosatellites, focusing on magnetic actuation while still being applicable to larger spacecraft platforms. By employing Model-in-the-Loop (MIL), Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), Processor-in-the-Loop (PIL), and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) methodologies, this framework enables a thorough and systematic approach to testing and validation. The framework facilitates the assessment of long-term maneuvers, addressing challenges such as initial small-attitude errors and restricted 3D movements. Two specific maneuvers are evaluated: detumbling and nadir pointing, utilizing quaternions and a comprehensive suite of sensors, including six sun sensors, a three-axis magnetometer, a three-axis gyroscope, GPS, and three magnetorquers. The methodologies—MIL, SIL, PIL, and HIL—integrate the behaviors of digital sensors, analog signals, and astrodynamic perturbations. Based on an optimized SIL environment, Monte Carlo simulations were performed to optimize control gains for nadir pointing, achieving a mean pointing accuracy of 11.69° (MIL) and 18.22° (PIL), and an angular velocity norm of 0.0022 rad/s for detumbling. The HIL environment demonstrated a mean pointing accuracy of 9.96° and an angular velocity norm of 0.0024 rad/s. This comprehensive framework significantly advances the design and verification processes for nanosatellite ADCSs, enhancing the reliability and performance of nanosatellite missions.