Multivariable Generalized Super-Twisting Algorithm Robust Control of Linear Time-Invariant Systems
J. C. Geromel, E. V. L. Nunes, L. Hsu
TL;DR
This work addresses robust control of uncertain MIMO linear plants by formulating a Multivariable Generalized Super-Twisting Algorithm ($MGSTA$) within an $LMIs$ framework. The plant is decomposed into linear and nonlinear subsystems, each analyzed with dedicated Lyapunov functions, and a max-type non-differentiable Lyapunov function is used to ensure global stability and sliding-mode finite-time convergence. Exogenous Lipschitz disturbances and convex bounded parameter uncertainty in all system matrices are handled via convex LMIs, with a one-to-one variable change enabling tractable gain synthesis and a 2D search over design parameters. A fault-tolerant MGSTA controller is demonstrated on a 3-DOF mechanical chain, illustrating robust performance and practical applicability. The methodology provides a systematic, solvable route to compute robust gains and guaranteed performance in the presence of internal dynamics and actuator faults, with potential extensions to full-order output feedback and time-optimal reaching.
Abstract
This paper presents a novel procedure for robust control design of linear time-invariant systems using a Multivariable Generalized Super-Twisting Algorithm (MGSTA). The proposed approach addresses robust stability and performance conditions, considering convex bounded parameter uncertainty in all matrices of the plant state-space realization and Lipschitz exogenous disturbances. The primary characteristic of the closed-loop system, sliding mode finite-time convergence, is thoroughly examined and evaluated. The design conditions, obtained through the proposal of a novel max-type non-differentiable piecewise-continuous Lyapunov function are formulated as Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMIs), which can be efficiently solved using existing computational tools. A fault-tolerant MGSTA control is designed for a mechanical system with three degrees of freedom, illustrating the efficacy of the proposed LMI approach.
