Deployment dynamics and control of spinning space web

Space web is lightweight membrane or cable net deployable in space. Deployment and stabilization of large space web by spin have gained interest because the rotational inertia forces are in the plane of rotation and the spin rate that determines the magnitude of the web tension can be chosen to meet the mission requirements. Nevertheless, during the development process, without control or inappropriate control may cause the severe wave of the web, even the dangerous situation such as reverse winding. Therefore, it is necessary to establish an accurate model and design a feasible control strategy. In this study, a simplified analytical model of the spinning web for the first step is established by using Lagrange equation, and the model validity is verified. Several control laws for the spinning web are tested, and an optimal control law is chosen in the view of deployment effect and energy consumption.