Matrix Controller Reference Manual - kwan3217/Orbiter GitHub Wiki

Credits

MatrixController Copyright 2009 Chris Jeppesen. Published by St. Kwan's Home for the Terminally ADD. This work is released under the GNU Library GPL.

What the MatrixController is

The MatrixController is an attitude control system implemented using matrices. Given a target attitude, the controller uses the maneuvering thrusters to achieve the target attitude.

What the MatrixController isn't

The MatrixController is not an MFD, vessel, or autopilot. Instead, it is a component of any of these. What is typically called "guidance" is actually at least three separate tasks:

  • Navigation: Figuring out where the vessel is
  • Guidance: Figuring out where the vessel should be and how to get there
  • Control: Making the vessel follow the commands from Guidance
MatrixController is just a control loop. It does the "Control" function above. It is not an autopilot by itself (an autopilot does all three things) but it is part of a crew of programs which together form an autopilot. The controller takes its orders from the Guidance program, in one of two forms

Another thing the controller isn't: It isn't subject to gimbal lock. You may freely point at any attitude however close to (or right at) any pole, and the controller will keep on cranking.

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