For a right-invariant and controllable driftless system on SU(n), we consider
a time-periodic reference trajectory along which the linearized control system
generates su(n): such trajectories always exist and constitute the basic
ingredient of Coron's Return Method. The open-loop controls that we propose,
which rely on a left-invariant tracking error dynamics and on a fidelity-like
Lyapunov function, are determined from a finite number of left-translations of
the tracking error and they assure global asymptotic convergence towards the
periodic reference trajectory. The role of these translations is to avoid being
trapped in the critical region of this Lyapunov-like function. The convergence
proof relies on a periodic version of LaSalle's invariance principle and the
control values are determined by numerical integration of the dynamics of the
system. Simulations illustrate the obtained controls for n=4 and the
generation of the C--NOT quantum gate.Comment: Submitte