Robust controller design with genetic algorithm for flexible spacecraft

A class of energy-based position controllers for a kind of flexible spacecraft is proposed. Closed-loop stability of the original distributed parameter system can be achieved, as well as asymptotic stability for the truncated system, which is obtained through representing the deflection of the appendage by an arbitrary finite number of flexible modes. The feedback gains of the controller are tuned by a genetic algorithm (GA) optimization process to achieve good results for tip motion based on some suitable fitness functions. Numerical simulations are carried out on a kind of spacecraft with one flexible appendage, and satisfactory results are obtained.