Optical Axis Stabilization of a Two-axis Platform

One method for stabilizing the pointing vector(optical axis) of a two-axis platform is analyzed.Installing the angular rate and acceleration sensors directly on the axes is often used in the precision pointing applications. This configuration impacts platform size, and the sensors must be capable of withstanding high angular slew rates. Sensors are installed on the platform base in the other configuration which alleviates some issues with the first approach. And it may be much efficient since disturbances are measured. This paper investigates the disturbances and sensor noise on the performance of stabilization control loop configuration. It provides a detailed analysis of the mechanisms by which disturbances are coupled to the pointing vector, as well as describes its advantages and disadvantages. It concludes with a performance based upon simulated sensor noise and three sets of platform base disturbance inputs ranging from mild to harsh disturbance environments.