Robust output-feedback control of linear discrete-time systems

The problem of designing H_∞ dynamic output-feedback controllers for linear discrete-time systems with polytopic type parameter uncertainties is considered. Given a transfer function matrix of a system with uncertain real parameters that reside in some known ranges, an appropriate, not necessarily minimal, state-space model of the system is described which permits reconstruction of all its states via the delayed inputs and outputs of the plant. The resulting model incorporates the uncertain parameters of the transfer function matrix in the state-space matrices. A recently developed linear parameter-dependent LMI approach to state-feedback H_∞ control of uncertain polytopic systems is then used to design a robust output-feedback controllers that are of order comparable to the one of the plant. These controllers ensure the stability and guarantee a prescribed performance level within the uncertainty polytope.