L2 Norm-Based Control Regularization for Solving Optimal Control Problems

Abstract

Solutions to practical optimal control problems (OCPs) may consist of control profiles that switch between control limits or assume values interior to its admissible set, either due to activation of inequality state path constraints or existence of singular control arcs. Moreover, abrupt switches in the control (i.e., bang-bang control) jeopardizes the numerical solution of OCPs unless care is taken to isolate precise time transition points where sharp switches occur (excluding the chattering phenomenon). We propose a novel control regularization method, called Bang-Bang Singular Regularization (BBSR), based on L2 norm-based regularization. We present an analysis on the L2 norm-based regularization at two levels: 1) its connection to trigonometric regularization and 2) its ability to approximate regular and singular control arcs. The utility of the method is demonstrated in solving three classes of trajectory optimization problems: 1) space low-thrust minimum-fuel maneuvers, 2) Goddard rocket problem with its known "bang-singularbang" control structure, and 3) minimum-time spacecraft reorientation. The results demonstrate the utility of the BBSR regularization method in approximating extremal control profiles that may consist of pure regular and/or mixed regular and singular arcs.

Rapid Approximation of Low-Thrust Spacecraft Reachable Sets within Complex Two-Body and Cislunar Dynamics

“…Optimal control techniques are used extensively for solving challenging practical engineering problems [1][2][3] and for trajectory optimization tasks [4,5]. Optimal control and robotics applications frequently use reachable set theory as a metric to assess cost and safety.…”