arXiv subjects

Alessio Bocci

Publications and source records attributed to Alessio Bocci.

7 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Tracking the Effective Surface Area of Non-Convex Satellites

This paper presents a novel framework to track the effective surface area of non-convex satellites, enabling the use of aerodynamic drag in low Earth orbit for orbital control. The proposed framework enables the satellite to track the effective surface area while simultaneously performing other maneuvers. We introduce this framework through a backstepping control algorithm, and exemplify its advantages with an extension, to simultaneously maximize solar panel exposure. The equilibria of the closed-loop systems are shown to be asymptotically stable, and simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed framework.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2026

Leader-Follower Formation Control Using Differential Drag and Effective Surface Regulation

The growing interest in space activities has led to the emergence of new space operators and innovative mission concepts. Small satellites such as CubeSats reduce mission costs and are typically deployed in constellations or formation flights. Since they are often propulsionless, passive orbital control strategies are the standard, primarily through differential drag achieved via attitude control maneuvers. This work develops a control system to achieve a generic relative positioning between two small satellites in a virtual leader and real follower formation flight, relying entirely on differential drag achieved through attitude maneuvers. We propose a control law based on the integrator backstepping technique, which, in a closed loop with the rotational dynamics, results in the asymptotic stability of the closed-loop system equilibrium points. We demonstrate the asymptotic stability of the closed-loop system equilibrium points using the Lyapunov theory, and a numerical simulation assesses the effectiveness and accuracy of the control strategy.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2022

The Differential Equations of Gravity-free Double Pendulum: Lauricella Hypergeometric Solutions and Their Inversion

This paper solves in closed form the system of ODEs ruling the 2D motion of a gravity free double pendulum (GFDP), not subjected to any force. In such a way its movement is governed by the initial conditions only. The relevant strongly non linear ODEs have been put back to hyperelliptic quadratures which, through the Integral Representation Theorem (IRT), are driven to the Lauricella hypergeometric functions. We compute time laws and trajectories of both point masses forming the GFDP in explicit closed form. Suitable sample problems are carried out in order to prove the method effectiveness.

physics.class-ph↗

arXiv2021

Analytic inversion of closed form solutions of the satellite's $J_2$ problem

This report provides some closed form solutions -- and their inversion -- to a satellite's bounded motion on the equatorial plane of a spheroidal attractor (planet) considering the $J_{2}$ spherical zonal harmonic. The equatorial track of satellite motion -- assuming the co-latitude $φ$ fixed at $π/2$ -- is investigated: the relevant time laws and trajectories are evaluated as combinations of elliptic integrals of first, second, third kind and Jacobi elliptic functions. The new feature of this report is: from the inverse $t = t(c)$ to get the period $T$ of some functions $c(t)$ of mechanical interest and then to construct the relevant $c(t)$ expansion in Fourier series, in such a way performing the inversion. Such approach -- which led to new formulations for time laws of a $J_{2}$ problem -- is benchmarked by applying it to the basic case of keplerian motion, finding again the classic results through our different analytic path. Keywords: $J_2$ problem, bounded satellite motion, Fourier series, elliptic integrals, Jacobi elliptic functions.

astro-ph.EP↗

arXiv2021

ADCS Preliminary Design For GNB

This work deals with an ADCS model for a satellite orbiting around Earth. The object is to achieve a preliminary design and perform some analysis on it. To do so, a GNB was selected and main properties are exploited. Previous works of [9], [13], [14], [15] and [17] were analyzed and a synthesis was obtained; then a suitable control system was designed to satisfy technical requirements. Coding was performed using Matlab and Simulink. Keywords: Attitude Determination, Attitude Control, Nanosatellite, Orbital Perturbations, Quaternion, Two Body Problem, Euler's Equations, Lyapunov Function.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2017

Hypergeometric solutions to a three dimensional dissipative oscillator driven by aperiodic forces

We model the dynamical behavior of a three dimensional (3-D) dissipative oscillator consisting of a $m$-block whose vertical fall occurs against a spring and which can also slide horizontally on a rigid truss rotating at a known angular speed law $ω(t)$. The $z$-vertical time law is obvious, whilst its $x$-motion along the horizontal arm is ruled by a linear differential equation to be solved through the Hermite functions and the Confluent Hypergeometric Function (CHF) $_{1}F_{1}$ (Kummer). After the rotation time law $θ(t)$ has been computed, we know completely the mass motion in a cylindrical coordinate reference: some transients have then been discussed. Finally, further effects as an inclined slide and a contact dry friction have been added to the problem, so that the motion differential equation becomes inhomogeneous and we resort to Lagrange method of variation of constants, helped by a Fourier-Bessel expansion, in order to manage the relevant intractable integrations.

math.CA↗

arXiv2016

Unsteady rotating laminar flow: analytical solution of Navier-Stokes equations

We provide a integration of Navier-Stokes equations concerning the unsteady-state laminar flow of an incompressible, isothermal (newtonian) fluid in a cylindrical vessel spinning about its symmetry axis, say $z$, and inside which the liquid velocity starts with a non-zero axial component as well. Basic physical assumptions are that the pressure axial gradient keeps itself on its hydrostatic value and that no radial velocity exists. In such a way the PDEs become uncoupled and can be faced separately from each other. We succeed in computing both the unsteady velocities, i.e. the axial $v_z$ and the circumferential $v_θ$ as well, by means of infinite series expansions of Fourier-Bessel type under time exponential damping. Following this, we also find the unsteady surfaces of dynamical equilibrium, the wall shear stress and the Stokesian streamlines

physics.flu-dyn↗