AOCS Simulator project timeline
AOCS Simulator - Open-Source Tool in Python
The AOCS Simulator is an ambitious open-source project in the developmental stages, aimed at creating a robust tool for simulating the Attitude and Orbit Control system of spacecraft. The driving force behind this initiative is a collaborative effort of passionate independent engineers, united by the common goal of advancing space simulation technology.
- In the realm of free and open-source software, there exists a challenge for individual learners. The amalgamation of multiple coding platforms often proves to be a cumbersome experience for students seeking specific and swift simulations.
- While MATLAB stands out as a versatile and advanced solution, its licensing costs pose a significant hurdle for individual learners.
- The vision behind the AOCS Simulator is to not only offer a platform for curious engineers but also to cultivate an environment where aspiring students can actively learn and contribute. This simulator serves as a valuable resource for academic endeavors and Do-It-Yourself (DIY) projects, fostering a community of collaborative learning.
Software Development Structure:
The current focus centers on establishing a robust foundation for the AOCS Simulator through the development of a meticulously crafted software template, emphasizing code style, and an interactive interface. The objective is to create a structured environment conducive to clean code development.
Key Components of Phase 1:
- State-of-art studies on available AOCS and Astrodynamics simulators.
- Template and Interface: Constructing a template and interface structure to facilitate the development of clean and well-organized code.
- Visualization Packages: Identifying and incorporating packages essential for visualization, enhancing the simulator's capabilities.
- Testing and Integration: Conducting a comprehensive testing and integration campaign to ensure the reliability and cohesion of the software.
Core Models:
The core models currently under development lay the foundation for subsequent expansions, addressing both orbital and attitude propagation models.
1. Orbital Propagation Models:
- Addressing the Two-Body Problem.
- Implementing Gauss Planetary Equations with considerations for drag, aspherical effects, solar radiation pressure (SRP), and third-body perturbation.
- Incorporating Lagrange Planetary Equations with a focus on conservative forces, including third-body effects and aspherical influences.
2. Attitude Propagation Models:
- Implementing Euler Rotational Dynamics.
- Employing Rotational Kinematics with Direction Cosine Matrix (DCM), Quaternions, and Modified Rodrigues Parameters (MRP).
- Accounting for Disturbance Models such as Solar Torque, Atmospheric Drag Torque, and Gravity Gradient Torque.
Tracks for Team Members:
The transition to Phase 2 marks a shift to concurrent implementation, where each team member specializes in a particular track, fostering in-depth development and expertise in specific areas.
1. Sensors Modeling:
- Focusing on the detailed modeling of sensors employed in spacecraft systems.
2. Actuators Modeling:
- Emphasizing the comprehensive modeling of spacecraft actuators.
3. Attitude Determination/Estimation Algorithms - Static and Dynamic:
- Involving the implementation of algorithms for accurately determining and estimating spacecraft attitude.
4. Attitude Dynamics and Control Laws:
- Concentrating on the dynamic aspects of attitude control, including the development of control laws.
- Extending Multibody Dynamics to include components like antennas, deployable structures, and on-board propulsion systems.
5. Orbital Dynamics and Control Laws:
- Centering on the implementation of control laws for orbital dynamics.
6. Mission Case Studies:
- Involving real-world mission case studies, applying the developed simulator to practical scenarios.
Concurrent Development Approach:
During Phase 2, the team concurrently works on their assigned tracks, fostering specialization while maintaining collaborative synergy. This approach ensures a comprehensive and versatile simulator, ready to address complex spacecraft simulation challenges.
AOCS Simulator project timeline
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