The dynamic modelling and control system of a tethered aerostat for remote sensing applications

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Aerostats and Stratolites could play a major role in expanding current satellite and other technologiesin the near future. A study was made on the development of aerostat platforms and the currentstate of Stratolite development.The aim was to develop an airship system that is capable of maintaining a specific positionregardless of the presence of wind. The various applications of such a geostationary platform arediscussed.A dynamic model of an airship was developed and a simulation was implemented in software.This was done to study the possibility of developing aerostats like these.A tethered airship system was developed and built to demonstrate that it is possible to controlthe position of an airship. The airship system uses current technology in an unique combination tofulfil the requirement of remaining stationary despite the influence of wind.Various control system design techniques were used to implement the controllers. Linear modelsof the airship system were identified practically and used to design the controllers.The controllers were tested in simulation as well as practically and the results of these testsare given. It was concluded that there exists potential for the development of Stratolite systems,although there exists a fair amount of challenges and obstacles that would need to be overcomebefore this technology could be implemented.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University