arXiv subjects

Umberto Zucchelli

Publications and source records attributed to Umberto Zucchelli.

2 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Modeling of Spinning Plates: Geometric Stiffening and Modal Approximation for GNC Applications

This work presents a modal formulation for flexible rectangular plates, accounting for nonlinear geometric effects arising from in-plane foreshortening and centrifugal stiffening. The model is linearized with respect to elastic deformations while retaining the full dependence on spacecraft angular velocities and accelerations. System matrices depend nonlinearly on spacecraft states through squared and cross-product terms, capturing gyroscopic coupling and dynamic stiffening phenomena for arbitrary rotational maneuvers. Polynomial approximation of mode shapes enables efficient computation while preserving accuracy. Model predictions are validated against finite element simulations and literature data for transient response under prescribed hub motion.

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arXiv2025

Closed-loop control of sloshing fuel in a spinning spacecraft

New-generation space missions require satellites to carry substantial amounts of liquid propellant, making it essential to analyse the coupled control-structure-propellant dynamics in detail. While Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) offers high-fidelity predictions, its computational cost limits its use in iterative design. Equivalent Mechanical Models (EMMs) provide a faster alternative, though their predictive performance, especially in closed-loop scenarios, remains largely unexplored. This work presents a comparative analysis of a spacecraft under feedback control, using both CFD and a reduced-order sloshing model. Results show good agreement, validating the simplified model for the manoeuvrer considered. This validation enables efficient sensitivity and stability studies, offering a practical tool for early-stage spacecraft design.

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