Active disturbance rejection heading control of USV based on parameter tuning via an improved pigeon-inspired optimization

An improved active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) algorithm is proposed in this paper to enhance the heading control capabilities of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) under wind and wave disturbances. The algorithm introduces two enhancements: parameter tuning and fitting, alongside the optimization of the nonlinear function in the ADRC algorithm. First, the parameter tuning employs an improved pigeon-inspired optimization (PIO) algorithm, which encompasses two strategies: the adaptive strategy and the wandering strategy. Parameter fitting ensures discretely optimized value transition into a continuous state, allowing dynamic parameter adjustments. Second, the optimization of the nonlinear function uses the D-value fitting method. Overall, the improved ADRC algorithm significantly enhances response speed to heading control commands for USVs, fortifying their resistance against wind and wave disturbances. Our proposed algorithm provides a new approach to achieve precise USV heading control.