Optimum placement of controls for static deformations of space structures

Many large space structures, such as large antennas, have to maintain a fairly exact shape to operate satisfactorily. Such structures require active and passive controls to maintain their accurate shape under disturbances. The present paper is concerned with optimum placement of controls for correcting static deformations. Both force actuators and heaters are considered for controls. A formulation of design against the worst disturbance is derived. A beam example is employed to demonstrate the procedure.