Special section technical notes and correspondence. Min-max model predictive control of nonlinear systems using discontinuous feedbacks

This note proposes a model predictive control (MPC) algorithm for the solution of a robust control problem for continuous-time systems. Discontinuous feedback strategies are allowed in the solution of the min–max problems to be solved. The use of such strategies allows MPC to address a large class of nonlinear systems, including among others nonholonomic systems. Robust stability conditions to ensure steering to a certain set under bounded disturbances are established. The use of bang–bang feedbacks described by a small number of parameters is proposed, reducing considerably the computational burden associated with solving a differential game. The applicability of the proposed algorithm is tested to control a unicycle mobile robot.