Single Star Orientation Using Dual-Axis Level Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current servo star sensors lack a reliable single star-based orientation method for dynamic conditions, requiring multiple celestial object observations and complex control strategies, which complicates high-precision attitude measurement.
Innovation Solution
A dual-axis level sensor-based method for single star orientation, using orthogonal side surfaces of a hexahedron to calculate pitch and roll angles, and incorporating redundant non-level information for improved data update rates and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If active star-seeking with multiple celestial objects is used for attitude measurement, then reliability under quasi-static conditions is acceptable, but under dynamic conditions the observation targets fall out of the observation field of view and reliable observation fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by introducing a predictive model that anticipates the motion of celestial objects and adjusts the observation strategy accordingly. The system dynamically updates the predicted positions of stars based on carrier motion information, enabling continuous tracking of a single star even when the carrier is moving rapidly, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability to dynamic conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by pre-calculating the positions and motion trajectories of celestial objects before observation. The predictive model computes where stars will be located at future time points, allowing the system to proactively adjust the observation field and maintain reliable tracking of a single star under dynamic conditions
2Reliability
If inertial components such as gyroscopes are used to compensate for attitude changes during observation, then some compensation is achieved, but the small observation view field still fails to enable reliable observation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a predictive model as an intermediary between the inertial components and the observation system. This model processes the attitude change information from gyroscopes and translates it into predicted celestial object positions, enabling the small observation field to reliably track a single star by knowing exactly where to point, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and observation field size
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of observation strategy from passive multi-star detection to active single-star tracking with predictive positioning. By using the predictive model to calculate precise star positions based on carrier attitude changes, the system maintains reliable observation with a small field of view, resolving the contradiction between reliability and field size
3Reliability
If fine adjustment of the measuring instrument is strictly required for single star tracking control, then control robustness is enhanced, but it is difficult to achieve for dynamic carriers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using the predictive model to continuously monitor the predicted position of the target star and adjust the observation direction accordingly. This feedback mechanism provides control robustness through miss distance measurement while automatically adapting to dynamic carrier conditions, resolving the contradiction between control robustness and ease of operation for dynamic carriers
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically calculating predicted star positions and adjusting observation parameters without requiring manual fine adjustment. The predictive model enables the system to self-correct for carrier motion, making robust single-star tracking achievable for dynamic carriers without complex manual intervention
4Adaptability or versatility
If multi-star simultaneous solution is used for orientation, then observation coverage is improved, but the control strategy becomes complicated and calculation reference system conversion becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential orientation information from a single star observation, using the predictive model to compensate for carrier motion. By taking out only the necessary single-star data and using predictive correction, the system achieves good observation coverage without the complexity of multi-star simultaneous solutions, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and control complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a single star-based orientation method using a dual-axis level sensor, which includes a calibration process and an actual calculation process.