Robust state feedback synthesis for control of non-square multivariable nonlinear systems

In this paper, a robust nonlinear controller is designed in the Input/Output (I/O) linearization framework, for non-square multivariable nonlinear systems that have more inputs than outputs and are subject to parametric uncertainty. A nonlinear state feedback is synthesized that approximately linearizes the system in an I/O sense by solving a convex optimization problem online. A robust controller is designed for the linear uncertain subsystem using a multi-model H2=H1 synthesis approach to ensure robust stability and performance of non-square multivariable, nonlinear systems. This methodology is illustrated via simulation of a regulation problem in a continuous stirred tank reactor. # 2002 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.