Payload-Swing Suppression of a Container Crane: Comparison Between Command Shaping Control and Optimal Control

In this paper two control strategies, command shaping control and optimal control, which aim to the reduction of the residual vibrations of the payload in a container crane system are investigated. Both control methods are open loop control. Due to unmodeled dynamics of the plant and disturbances like initial sway and wind, some residual sway always exists at the end of trolley movement. Command inputs are designed to achieve the control objectives including minimal residual vibration and robustness in the presence of unmodeled dynamics. Simulation results of various command inputs are compared in terms of arrival time, residual sway angle, robustness, and maximum sway distance during the traveling. Command shaping method provides a more competent tool than optimal control.