Friction Dynamics Modeling and System Simulation of Large-Angular-Momentum Flywheels for Satellites

In response of the stringent requirements of high-resolution optical remote sensing satellites for attitude control stability and micro-vibration environment, this study focuses on the friction dynamics modeling and simulation analysis of large-angular-momentum flywheels across a wide speed range. To quantify the impact of flywheel friction disturbances on satellite attitude pointing accuracy, friction torque characteristic data were first acquired through ground testing over the full speed range, and a high-fidelity static fitting mathematical model was constructed using the least squares method. To further elucidate the nonlinear friction mechanisms in the low-speed regime—particularly during speed zero-crossings—the LuGre dynamic friction model was introduced, and its core parameters were identified and optimized. Comparative results demonstrate that the model exhibits high-precision characterization capabilities, with a deviation of less than 0.0015 Nm from measured data within the critical low-speed range of ±50 rpm. Subsequently, the established friction model was integrated into a satellite attitude control closed-loop system for digital simulation to quantitatively evaluate the disturbance of friction torque on system steady-state accuracy. The results indicate that under the closed-loop control compensation mechanism, the impact of flywheel friction on satellite attitude pointing accuracy is effectively suppressed, with the attitude angle deviation maintained within 0.002°, thereby meeting the engineering requirements for high-precision remote sensing imaging. This research provides a theoretical basis and data support for the optimization design of flywheel systems and the refined design of satellite attitude controllers.