CDS 101: Principles of Feedback and Control

Lecture 3.1: Stability and Performance

14 October 2002

Lecture Reading FAQ Homework CDS 101

Lecture

This lecture provides and introduction to stability and performance of (nonlinear) control systems. A formal definition of stable systems is given and phase portraits are introduced to help visualize the concepts. Local and global behavior of nonlinear systems is discussed, using a damped pendulum and the preditor-prey problem as examples. Performance of control systems is presented for both transient (step respones) and steady state (frequency domain) specifications.

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Reading Material and Handouts

Handouts from lecture

The following materials were handed out in lecture. These have been updated to include any corrections.

Required reading

Supplemental reading

Homework Set #3

This homework set covers stability and performance through a series of application examples. The first problem provides a set of three real-world models in which the student must identify the equilibrium points and determine stability of the equilibrium points (through simulation). The second problem explores performance specification in the conext of the cruise control example, including step response and frequency response.

Modifications to the homework (link above is always the latest version):

Frequently asked questions on homework and TA hints: