State-space analysis of the Trident II Mark 6 gyro

Abstract

This thesis conducts a state-space analysis of the Mark 6 gyro used in the Trident II missile system. Optimal control techniques, utilizing a region controller, have been employed in designing a gyro controller. The response of the system to missile motion is examined and compared to the system response using the current control laws. It is shown that an optimal region controller reduces the gyro error in the system while effectively avoiding gimbal lock, a situ­ation which exists when gyro orientation prevents missile motion from being isolated in an orthogonal three axis coor­dinate system. Recommendations for the application of additional modern control techniques are included.