Finite-Dimensional Observation and Control of Ensembles of Linear Systems (FOCENS)

• Applicant: Dr. Gunther Dirr, since 3/2016
• Subject Area: Mathematics
• Term: from 2016 to 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 289586948

Ensemble control is an emerging field of mathematical systems and control theory that refers to the task of controlling a large, potentially infinite, number of states, or systems, using a single input function or a single feedback controller. A prototype of an ensemble is determined by a parameter dependent family of systems and initial states which has to be controlled by a single input or feedback controller. Applications of ensemble control arise in, e.g., quantum control, systems biology, sensor networks and robotics, where control actions and measurements are performed in a distributed way. Classical methods from robust control do not suffice to study ensembles of systems and a new theory is needed. Except for few rudimentary contributions, no rigorous control theory of ensembles exists so far. Based on a combination of methods from linear and nonlinear control with those from operator theory, complex analysis and approximation theory, we propose to establish fundamental concepts and tools for a system theoretic analysis of linear parametric ensembles. Thus we aim at a comprehensive structure theory for parameter dependent linear systems, by addressing the fundamental tasks of controllability and observability, complexity reduction and state estimation for ensembles.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Israel
• Co-Investigator: Professor Dr.-Ing. Frank Allgöwer
• Cooperation Partner: Professor Dr. Paul Fuhrmann
• Ehemaliger Antragsteller: Professor Dr. Uwe Helmke, until 3/2016 (†)