Optimal direct (static) output feedback controller using real coded genetic algorithms

This paper considers a genetic based optimisation procedure for designing the control force in actively controlled structures. Two optimal output feedback controllers utilising H-2 and H-infinity optimal control are discussed in this paper where only a limited number of sensors is used. In addition, the feedback control used in this paper is a static (direct) output feedback control where the gain can be multiplied directly with the measurement output. Therefore, it is not necessary to construct an observer to estimate the state as in the case of dynamic or observer based controller. The optimisation to minimise the H-2 and H-infinity norms are solved using real coded genetic algorithms, which have the ability to explore the unknown domain of the solution. Numerical examples are then carried out to the structures utilising active tuned mass damper and active bracing systems to show the applicability of the proposed procedure. (C) 2001 Civil-Comp Ltd. and Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.