In this paper three algorithms of motion planning for two-input, one-chained nonholonomic systems are presented. The classical Murray-Sastry algorithm is compared with two original algorithms aimed at optimizing energy of controls. Based on the generalized Campbell- Baker-Hausdorff-Dynkin formula applied to the systems, some observations are made concerning the optimal relationship between amplitudes and phases of harmonic controls. The observations help to optimize a selection of controls and to design new algorithms for planning a sub- optimal trajectory between given boundary configurations. It was also shown that for those particular systems the generalized C-B-H-D formula is valid not only locally (as in a typical case) but also globally. Simulations performed on the five-dimensional chain system facilitate distinguishing the proposed algorithms from the Murray-Sastry algorithm and to illustrate their features. Systems in a chained form are important from a practical point of view as they are canonical for a class of systems transformable into this form. The most prominent among them are mobile robots with or without trailers.

Single-frame methods of determining the attitude of a nanosatellite are compared in this study. The methods selected for comparison are: Single Value Decomposition (SVD), q method, Quaternion ESTimator (QUEST), Fast Optimal Attitude Matrix (FOAM) − all solving optimally the Wahba’s problem, and the algebraic method using only two vector measurements. For proper comparison, two sensors are chosen for the vector observations on-board: magnetometer and Sun sensors. Covariance results obtained as a result of using those methods have a critical importance for a non-traditional attitude estimation approach; therefore, the variance calculations are also presented. The examined methods are compared with respect to their root mean square (RMS) error and variance results. Also, some recommendations are given.