The Use of Linear Control Laws with Non-Linear Systems

The problem of providing optimal regulation of non-linear systems has been one of long standing and has been solved usually by empirical techniques with, seemingly, no relief provided by the methods based on the newer theories of control. This paper deals with two methods which both depend on the solution of an optimal control problem, and which take into account the specifically non-linear nature of the plant. The sub-optimal control laws which result are linear and are easily synthesised.