Non-Proportionally Scaled-Down Model Approach to Solar Array Drive System Performance Prediction Considering Control Strategy

In order to facilitate the performance prediction of solar array drive system (SADS) using the scaled-down model approach, a non-proportionally scaled-down model of an SADS is proposed in this paper. A mathematical model of the SADS is first established for the analysis of its physical characteristics. On this basis, a non-proportionally scaled-down model of the SADS is then proposed using similarity theory, and the similarity ratios between a full-size prototype and the scaled-down model are deduced. Furthermore, the adjustment criterion for the control parameters of the scaled-down model is analyzed. Simulation and experimental results show that the obtained non-proportionally scaled-down model can qualitatively predict the system performance of the full-size prototype, with relative errors of the angular position and torque in less than 9.2%. The novelty of this research is a systematic non-proportionally scaled-down model approach to predict SADS performance by creatively taking the control strategy of SADS into account, which was not available earlier.