A survey on convex optimization for guidance and control of vehicular systems

Guidance and control (G&C) technologies play a central role in the development and operation of vehicular systems. The emergence of computational guidance and control (CG&C) and highly efficient numerical algorithms has opened up the great potential for solving complex constrained G&C problems onboard, enabling higher level of autonomous vehicle operations. In particular, convex-optimization-based G&C has matured significantly over the years and many advances continue to be made, allowing the generation of optimal G&C solutions in real-time for many vehicular systems in aerospace, automotive, and other domains. In this paper, we review recent major advances in convex optimization and convexification techniques for G&C of vehicular systems, focusing primarily on three important application fields: (1) Space vehicles for powered descent guidance, small body landing, rendezvous and proximity operations, orbital transfer, spacecraft reorientation, space robotics and manipulation, spacecraft formation flying, and station keeping; (2) Air vehicles including hypersonic/entry vehicles, missiles and projectiles, launch/ascent vehicles, and low-speed air vehicles; and (3) Motion control and powertrain control of ground vehicles. Throughout the paper, we draw figures that illustrate the basic mission concepts and objectives, introduce key equations that characterize the feature of each class of problems and approaches, and present tables that summarize similarities and distinctions among the problems, ideas, and methods. Where available, we provide comparative analyses and reveal correlations between different applications and technical approaches. Finally, we identify open challenges and issues, discuss potential opportunities, and make suggestions for future research directions.