PhD Comprehensive Exam | M. Sajjad Edalatzadeh, Optimal Actuator and Sensor Location of Quasi-Linear Partial Differential Equations

MC 6460

Candidate

M. Sajjad Edalatzadeh , Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo

Title

Optimal Actuator and Sensor Location of Quasi-Linear Partial Differential Equations

Abstract

Flexible structures are frequently used in many engineering applications. Despite numerous advantages in using flexible structures, these structures suffer from undesired vibrations. For this reason, vibration control and estimation of flexible structures have been a focus of study from mathematical and engineering perspectives. To estimate and suppress the vibrations, many control and estimation strategies have been suggested over the years. Unfortunately, these control and estimation strategies mostly concern linear models of flexible structures. Although linear models are more tractable, they do not reflect the real behaviour of flexible structures. Recently, a practical, though complicated, question has attracted attentions; that is, where are the best locations on a flexible structure for installing actuators and sensors? Similarly, this question has left unanswered for nonlinear models of flexible structures. In my research, I study the problem of finding the optimal actuator and sensor location for a flexible structure model known as the railway track model, which is described by a quasi-linear partial differential equation.