Evaluating the feasibility of chaos-based guidance systems in swarm projectiles

Abstract

This study investigates the feasibility and performance implications
of chaotic trajectory tracking for guided projectiles using PID
controllers under realistic environmental disturbances. Specifically, Lorenz,
Sprott-A, and Halvorsen chaotic systems were used as reference trajectories
in a three-dimensional projectile framework incorporating wind
perturbations and actuator dynamics. The methodology involved simulating
projectile dynamics with gimbal angle feedback to compute pitch
and yaw variations, angular velocities, and torque-based control effort.
Simulation results revealed that all three chaotic trajectories were trackable
using PID control. Among them, the Sprott-A system demonstrated
the most favorable profile for energy-constrained applications, requiring
the least control effort (198.43 Nm·s) and angular change (4805.74°),
along with the lowest energy consumption (18.24 kJ). In contrast, the
Halvorsen system exhibited the highest torque demand (122696.79 Nm)
and angular variability (31246.31°), making it less suitable for systems
with limited actuation capability. Lorenz presented intermediate performance
in all metrics. The results confirm that chaotic references can
enhance evasiveness while remaining within mechanical and energetic
constraints. These findings support the integration of chaos-informed trajectory
planning into autonomous swarm projectile systems for improved

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Identifiers

ORCID for Chris Freeman: orcid.org/0000-0003-0305-9246

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