McInnes, C. R. (2016) A continuum model for the orbit evolution of self-propelled 'smart dust' swarms. Celestial Mechanics and Dynamical Astronomy, 126(4), pp. 501-517. (doi: 10.1007/s10569-016-9707-y)
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Abstract
A continuity equation is developed to model the evolution of a swarm of self-propelled ‘smart dust’ devices in heliocentric orbit driven by solar radiation pressure. These devices are assumed to be MEMs-scale (micro-electromechanical systems) with a large area-to-mass ratio. For large numbers of devices it will be assumed that a continuum approximation can be used to model their orbit evolution. The families of closed-form solutions to the resulting swarm continuity equation then represent the evolution of the number density of devices as a function of both position and time from a set of initial data. Forcing terms are also considered which model swarm sources and sinks (device deposition and device failure). The closed-form solutions presented for the swarm number density provide insights into the behaviour of swarms of self-propelled ‘smart dust’ devices an can form the basis of more complex mission design methodologies.
Item Type: | Articles |
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Status: | Published |
Refereed: | Yes |
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: | McInnes, Professor Colin |
Authors: | McInnes, C. R. |
College/School: | College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Systems Power and Energy |
Journal Name: | Celestial Mechanics and Dynamical Astronomy |
Publisher: | Springer-Verlag |
ISSN: | 0923-2958 |
ISSN (Online): | 1572-9478 |
Published Online: | 30 June 2016 |
Copyright Holders: | Copyright © 2016 The Authors |
First Published: | First published in Celestial Mechanics and Dynamical Astronomy: 126(4): 501-517 |
Publisher Policy: | Reproduced under a Creative Commons License |
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