1647. An Iterative Eigenvector Approach to Determination of Prinicipal Axis Angles and Moments of Inertia
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Paper
Abstract
The characteristics of rotating mass are of prime importance in many industries. To predict and control this motion, it is critical to determine the orientation of the principal axes and the principal moments of inertia. The standard method of determining principal axis angles in the aerospace industry is to apply equations based on a two-dimensional case in which there is a plane of symmetry, such as in an airplane. Applying these equations to the more general three-dimensional case, such as an asymmetrical spacecraft, can result in significant error.
A computer program has been developed to meet the three-dimensional case. The program is written in BASIC computer language and uses less than 5K of memory. The iterative nature of the technique accounts for its small size. The advantage of a more compact program is its ability to fit into a pocket calculator, which makes it more portable.
