Algorithms for steering on the group of rotations

The paperfocuses on the problem of explicitly generating open-loop strategies for steering control systems with left-invariant vector fields on the Lie group of rigid rotations SO(3). Both systems with and without drift are considered as well as systems with three, two or one input(s). For each of cases, if possible, we present a constructive solution to the steering problem. The most interesting case are of systems with drift and either only or two inputs. Having two inputs gives us the freedom to choose the steering time. In the cese of only one input our algorithm will drive the system to the desired orientation in a finite time. There are, however, limitations on the choice of the arrival time. Simulation have been developed and the results animated on a SiliconGraphics Iris workstation. In particular, videotaped animation of the algorithm mentioned above will be presented at the conference.