Using Covariance Analysis to Assess Pointing Performance

Bayard, David; Kang, Bryan

A Pointing Covariance Analysis Tool (PCAT) has been developed for evaluating the expected performance of the pointing control system for NASA s Space Interferometry Mission (SIM). The SIM pointing control system is very complex, consisting of multiple feedback and feedforward loops, and operating with multiple latencies and data rates. The SIM pointing problem is particularly challenging due to the effects of thermomechanical drifts in concert with the long camera exposures needed to image dim stars. Other pointing error sources include sensor noises, mechanical vibrations, and errors in the feedforward signals. PCAT models the effects of finite camera exposures and all other error sources using linear system elements. This allows the pointing analysis to be performed using linear covariance analysis. PCAT propagates the error covariance using a Lyapunov equation associated with time-varying discrete and continuous-time system matrices. Unlike Monte Carlo analysis, which could involve thousands of computational runs for a single assessment, the PCAT analysis performs the same assessment in a single run. This capability facilitates the analysis of parametric studies, design trades, and "what-if" scenarios for quickly evaluating and optimizing the control system architecture and design.

Document ID

20090011188

Acquisition Source

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Document Type

Other - NASA Tech Brief

External Source(s)

http://www.techbriefs.com/component/content/article/5017

Authors

Date Acquired

August 24, 2013

Publication Date

March 1, 2009

Publication Information

Publication: NASA Tech Briefs, March 2009

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Report/Patent Number

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Public

Public Use Permitted.

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20090011188.pdf

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