Robust sliding mode observer-based actuator fault detection and isolation for a class of nonlinear systems

In this article, an actuator fault detection and isolation scheme for a class of nonlinear systems with uncertainty is considered. The uncertainty is allowed to have a nonlinear bound which is a general function of the state variables. A sliding mode observer is first established based on a constrained Lyapunov equation. Then, the equivalent output error injection is employed to reconstruct the fault signal using the characteristics of the sliding mode observer and the structure of the uncertainty. The reconstructed signal can approximate the system fault signal to any accuracy even in the presence of a class of uncertainty. Finally, a simulation study on a nonlinear aircraft system is presented to show the effectiveness of the scheme.