Finite-Time Disturbance Observer-Based Tracking Control for a Powered Parafoil System

This paper addresses a difficult problem of finite-time control for the flexible powered parafoil system with internal relative rotation and external disturbance. In this approach, two finite-time observers are first designed to estimate all uncertainties and disturbances. With the application of the precise estimation value, a robust finite-time controller is then synthesized. The key feature of the proposed method is that the complete closed-loop control, including heading angle and velocity loops, is achieved for the flexible system in the presence of disturbances and dynamic uncertainties. Simulation results are finally presented to validate the proposed method’s effectiveness.