Adaptive ILC algorithms of nonlinear continuous systems with non-parametric uncertainties for non-repetitive trajectory tracking

In this article, two adaptive iterative learning control (ILC) algorithms are presented for nonlinear continuous systems with non-parametric uncertainties. Unlike general ILC techniques, the proposed adaptive ILC algorithms allow that both the initial error at each iteration and the reference trajectory are iteration-varying in the ILC process, and can achieve non-repetitive trajectory tracking beyond a small initial time interval. Compared to the neural network or fuzzy system-based adaptive ILC schemes and the classical ILC methods, in which the number of iterative variables is generally larger than or equal to the number of control inputs, the first adaptive ILC algorithm proposed in this paper uses just two iterative variables, while the second even uses a single iterative variable provided that some bound information on system dynamics is known. As a result, the memory space in real-time ILC implementations is greatly reduced.     

Integrated predictive iterative learning control based on updating reference trajectory for point-to-point tracking

A novel control technique is proposed by combining iterative learning control (ILC) and model predictive control (MPC) with updating-reference trajectory for point-to-point tracking problem of batch process. In this paper, a batch-to-batch updating-reference trajectory, which passes through the desired points, is firstly designed as the tracking trajectory within a batch. The updating control law consists of P-type ILC part and MPC part, in which P-type ILC part can improve the performance by learning from previous executions and MPC part is used to suppress the model perturbations and external disturbances. Convergence properties of the integrated predictive iterative learning control (IPILC) are analyzed theoretically, and the sufficient convergence conditions of output tracking error are also derived for a class of linear systems. Comparing with other point-to-point tracking control algorithms, the proposed algorithm can perform better in robustness. Furthermore, updating-reference relaxes the constraints for system outputs, and it may lead to faster convergence and more extensive range of application than those of fixed-reference control algorithms. Simulation results on typical systems show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.     

An algebraic approach to iterative learning control

In this paper discrete-time iterative learning control (ILC) systems are analysed from an algebraic point of view. The algebraic analysis shows that a linear-time invariant single-input–single-output model can always represented equivalently as a static multivariable plant due to the finiteness of the time-axis. Furthermore, in this framework the ILC synthesis problem becomes a tracking problem of a multi-channel step-function. The internal model principle states that for asymptotic tracking (i.e. convergent learning) it is required that an ILC algorithm has to contain an integrator along the iteration axis, but at the same time the resulting closed-loop system should be stable. The question of stability can then be answered by analysing the closed-loop poles along the iteration axis using standard results from multivariable polynomial systems theory. This convergence theory suggests that time-varying ILC control laws should be typically used instead of time-invariant control laws in order to guarantee good transient tracking behaviour. Based on this suggestion a new adaptive ILC algorithm is derived, which results in monotonic convergence for an arbitrary linear discrete-time plant. This adaptive algorithm also has important implications in terms of future research work—as a concrete example it demonstrates that ILC algorithms containing adaptive and time-varying components can result in enhanced convergence properties when compared to fixed parameter ILC algorithms. Hence it can be expected that further research on adaptive learning mechanisms will provide a new useful source of high-performance ILC algorithms.     

IMC-based iterative learning control for batch processes with uncertain time delay

Based on the internal model control (IMC) structure, an iterative learning control (ILC) scheme is proposed for batch processes with model uncertainties including time delay mismatch. An important merit is that the IMC design for the initial run of the proposed control scheme is independent of the subsequent ILC for realization of perfect tracking. Sufficient conditions to guarantee the convergence of ILC are derived. To facilitate the controller design, a unified controller form is proposed for implementation of both IMC and ILC in the proposed control scheme. Robust tuning constraints of the unified controller are derived in terms of the process uncertainties described in a multiplicative form. To deal with process uncertainties, the unified controller can be monotonically tuned to meet the compromise between tracking performance and control system robust stability. Illustrative examples from the recent literature are performed to demonstrate the effectiveness and merits of the proposed control scheme.     

On reference governor in iterative learning control for dynamic systems with input saturation

Input saturation is inevitable in many engineering applications. Most existing iterative learning control (ILC) algorithms that can deal with input saturation require that the reference signal is realizable within the saturation bound. For engineering systems without precise models, it is hard to verify this requirement. In this note, a “reference governor” (RG) is introduced and is incorporated with the available ILC algorithms (primary ILC algorithms). The role of the RG is to re-design the reference signal so that the modified reference signal is realizable. Two types of the RG are proposed: one modifies the amplitude of the reference signal and the other modifies the frequency. Our main results provide design guidelines for two RGs. Moreover, a design trade-off between the convergence speed and tracking performance is also discussed. A simple simulation result verifies the effectiveness of the proposed methods.     

Identification based adaptive iterative learning controller

In recent years, more research in the control field has been in the area of self‐learning and adaptable systems, such as a robot that can teach itself to improve its performance. One of the more promising algorithms for self‐learning control systems is Iterative Learning Control (ILC), which is an algorithm capable of tracking a desired trajectory within a specified error limit. Conventional ILC algorithms have the problem of relatively slow convergence rate and adaptability. This paper suggests a novel approach by combining system identification techniques with the proposed ILC approach to overcome the aforementioned problems. The ensuing design procedure is explained and results are accrued from a number of simulation examples. A key point in the proposed scheme is the computation of gain matrices using the steepest descent approach. It has been found that the learning rule can be guaranteed to converge if certain conditions are satisfied. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society     

Sampled‐data iterative learning control for continuous‐time nonlinear systems with iteration‐varying lengths

In this work, sampled‐data iterative learning control (ILC) method is extended to a class of continuous‐time nonlinear systems with iteration‐varying trial lengths. In order to propose a unified ILC algorithm, the tracking errors will be redefined when the trial length is shorter or longer than the desired one. Based on the modified tracking errors, 2 sampled‐data ILC schemes are proposed to handle the randomly varying trial lengths. Sufficient conditions are derived rigorously to guarantee the convergence of the nonlinear system at each sampling instant. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed ILC laws, simulations for a nonlinear system are performed. The simulation results show that if the sampling period is set to be small enough, the convergence of the learning algorithms can be achieved as the iteration number increases.     

基于迭代学习的农业车辆路径跟踪控制

由于农作物的播种、收获、除草和农药化肥喷洒具有周期性的特点,农业车辆在执行农田作业时具有较强的重复性. 基于迭代学习控制（Iterative learning control,ILC）方法研究农业车辆的路径跟踪问题,建立了农业车辆的两轮移动机器人运动学模型,设计了车辆路径跟踪的迭代学习控制算法,并基于压缩 映射方法理论上证明了算法的收敛性. 研究表明,迭代学习控制可有效利用农业车辆运行的重复信息,实现车辆期望路径有限区间内的高精度完全跟踪控制. 仿真示例验证了本文方法的有效性.     

An integrated robust iterative learning control strategy for batch processes based on 2D system

This paper studies the problem of integrated control in the 2-dimensional (2D) system with parameter uncertainties for batch processes. An integrated iterative learning control (ILC) strategy based on quadratic performance for batch processes is proposed. It realizes comprehensive control by combining robust ILC in batch-axis with model predictive control (MPC) in time-axis. The design of quadratic-criterion-based ILC for the system can be converted into a min-max problem. Then a model predictive controller with time-varying prediction horizon is designed based on a quadratic cost function. For an uncertain model, a novel integrated robust ILC scheme based on a nominal model is further proposed. As a result, the control law of the 2D system can be regulated during one batch, which leads to good tracking performance and strong robustness against the disturbance and the uncertainties. Moreover, the analyses of the convergence and tracking performance are given. The proposed methods are applied to batch reactor, and results demonstrate that the system has good robustness and convergence. This paper provides a new way for batch processes control.     

Stochastic Iterative Learning Control With Faded Signals

Stochastic iterative learning control (ILC) is designed for solving the tracking problem of stochastic linear systems through fading channels. Consequently, the signals used in learning control algorithms are faded in the sense that a random variable is multiplied by the original signal. To achieve the tracking objective, a two-dimensional Kalman filtering method is used in this study to derive a learning gain matrix varying along both time and iteration axes. The learning gain matrix minimizes the trace of input error covariance. The asymptotic convergence of the generated input sequence to the desired input value is strictly proved in the mean-square sense. Both output and input fading are accounted for separately in turn, followed by a general formulation that both input and output fading coexists. Illustrative examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed schemes.      

Iterative learning control applied to batch processes: An overview

With the recent emphasis on batch processing by emerging industries like the microelectronics and biotechnology, the interest in batch process control has been renewed. This paper gives an overview of the iterative learning control (ILC) technique, which can be used to improve tracking control performance in batch processes. The fundamental concepts and review of the various ILC algorithms are presented, with a particular focus on a model-based algorithm called Q-ILC and an application involving a rapid thermal processing (RTP) system. The study indicates that one can solve a seemingly very difficult multivariable nonlinear tracking problem with relative ease by intelligently combining the ILC technique with basic process insights and standard system identification techniques. Some related techniques in the literature are brought forth with the hope of unifying them. We aslo suggest some remaining challenges.     

State Space Constrained Iterative Learning Control for Robotic Manipulators

Real‐life work operations of industrial robotic manipulators are performed within a constrained state space. Such operations most often require accurate planning and tracking a desired trajectory, where all the characteristics of the dynamic model are taken into consideration. This paper presents a general method and an efficient computational procedure for path planning with respect to state space constraints. Given a dynamic model of a robotic manipulator, the proposed solution takes into consideration the influence of all imprecisely measured model parameters, making use of iterative learning control (ILC). A major advantage of this solution is that it resolves the well‐known problem of interrupting the learning procedure due to a high transient tracking error or when the desired trajectory is planned closely to the state space boundaries. The numerical procedure elaborated here computes the robot arm motion to accurately track a desired trajectory in a constrained state space taking into consideration all the dynamic characteristics that influence the motion. Simulation results with a typical industrial robot arm demonstrate the robustness of the numerical procedure. In particular, the results extend the applicability of ILC in robot motion control and provide a means for improving the overall trajectory tracking performance of most robotic systems.     

Iterative learning control for integrated system of robot and machine tool

This study is concerned with the integrated system of a robot and a machine tool. The major task of robot is loading the workpiece to the machine tool for contour cutting. An iterative learning control (ILC) algorithm is proposed to improve the accuracy of the finished product. The proposed ILC is to modify the input command of the next machining cycle for both robot and machine tool to iteratively enhance the output accuracy of the robot and machine tool. The modified command is computed based on the current tracking/contour error. For the ILC of the robot, tracking error is considered as the control objective to reduce the tracking error of motion path, in particular, the error at the endpoint. Meanwhile, for the ILC of the machine tool, contour error is considered as the control objective to improve the contouring accuracy, which determines the quality of machining. In view of the complicated contour error model, the equivalent contour error instead of the actual contour error is taken as the control objective in this study. One challenge for the integrated system is that there exists an initial state error for the machine tool dynamics, violating the basic assumption of ILC. It will be shown in this study that the effects of initial state error can be significantly reduced by the ILC of the robot. The proposed ILC algorithm is verified experimentally on an integrated system of commercial robot and machine tool. The experimental results show that the proposed ILC can achieve more than 90% of reduction on both the RMS tracking error of the robot and the RMS contour error of the machine tool within six learning iterations. The results clearly validate the effectiveness of the proposed ILC for the integrated system.     

Robust design of integrated feedback and iterative learning control of a batch process based on a 2D Roesser system

To improve stability and convergence, feedback control is often incorporated with iterative learning control (ILC), resulting in feedback feed-forward ILC (FFILC). In this paper, a general form of FFILC is studied, comprising of two feedback controllers, a state feedback controller and a tracking error compensator, for the robustness and convergence along time direction, and an ILC for performance along the cycle direction. The integrated design of this FFILC scheme is transformed into a robust control problem of an uncertain 2D Roesser system. To describe the stability and convergence quantitatively along the time and the cycle direction, the concepts of robust stability and convergence along the two axes are introduced. A series of algorithms are established for the FFILC design. These algorithms allow the designer to balance and choose optimization objectives to meet the FFILC performance requirements. The applications to injection molding velocity control show the good effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed design methods.     

基于连续时间的二阶多智能体分布式资源分配算法

针对二阶多智能体系统中的分布式资源分配问题, 本文设计两种连续时间算法. 基于KKT (Karush?Kuhn?Tucker, 卡罗需?库恩?塔克)优化条件, 第一种控制算法利用节点局部不等式及其梯度信息来约束节点状态. 与上述梯度方法不同, 第二种控制算法包括一致性梯度下降法和固定时间收敛映射算子, 其中固定时间收敛映射算子确保算法的节点状态在固定时间收敛到局部约束集, 一致性梯度下降法目的是确保节点迭代到资源分配问题最优解. 两种控制算法都对状态无初始值约束, 且控制参数都是常数. 利用凸优化理论和固定时间李雅普诺夫方法, 分别分析了上述控制策略在有向平衡网络条件下的渐近和指数收敛性. 最后通过数值仿真验证了所设计算法在一维和高维资源分配问题的有效性.     

An inverse-model approach to multivariable norm optimal iterative learning control with auxiliary optimisation

Motivated by the commonly encountered problem in which tracking is only required at selected intermediate points within the time interval, a general optimisation-based iterative learning control (ILC) algorithm is derived that ensures convergence of tracking errors to zero whilst simultaneously minimising a specified quadratic objective function of the input signals and chosen auxiliary (state) variables. In practice, the proposed solutions enable a repeated tracking task to be accurately completed whilst simultaneously reducing undesirable effects such as payload spillage, vibration tendencies and actuator wear. The theory is developed using the well-known norm optimal ILC (NOILC) framework, using general linear, functional operators between real Hilbert spaces. Solutions are derived using feedforward action, convergence is proved and robustness bounds are presented using both norm bounds and positivity conditions. Algorithms are specified for both continuous and discrete-time state-space representations, with the latter including application to multi-rate sampled systems. Experimental results using a robotic manipulator confirm the practical utility of the algorithms and the closeness with which observed results match theoretical predictions.     

基于Jacobi方法的线性离散时间系统的迭代学习控制

提出线性离散时间系统基于Jacobi方法的迭代学习控制问题.通过构建线性迭代学习控制问题与线性方程组之间的联系,将Jacobi方法引入到迭代学习控制中,并由此构建得到迭代学习控制律.借助于矩阵运算,证明这种学习律能使得系统的输出跟踪误差经有限次迭代后为零.数值例子说明了算法的可适用性.     

Simple LMI based learning control design

In this note, a simple linear matrix inequality (LMI) design method is proposed for iterative learning control (ILC). The design can ensure a monotonic error decay in 2‐norm. Experimental results on a SCARA robot shows that the design can achieve nearly perfect tracking. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society     

Iterative learning control for strictly unknown nonlinear systems subject to external disturbances

This paper deals with Iterative Learning Control ILC schemes to solve the trajectory tracking problem of strictly unknown nonlinear systems subject to external disturbances, and performing repetitive tasks. Two ILC laws are presented, the first law is the high order, i.e., the information (error) of several iterations are used in the control law. The second law is the ILC with forgetting factor, i.e., the control of the preceding iteration is multiplied by a matrix of the gains. Indeed, the advantage of these algorithms, it is not only applicable for nonlinear systems with model uncertainty, but also for nonlinear systems with no data exists, neither in the structure model nor in the system parameters. In addition, the control design is very simple in the sense that there is no requirement on the choice of the learning gains. Furthermore, the convergence of our algorithms is independent of initial conditions. The asymptotic stability of the closed loop system is guaranteed. This proof is based upon the use of a Lyapunov-like positive definite sequence, which is shown to be monotonically decreasing under the proposed control schemes. Finally, simulation results on nonlinear system are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed controllers.     

Intermittent and Successive ILC for Stochastic Nonlinear Systems with Random Data Dropouts

The iterative learning control (ILC) problem is addressed in this paper for stochastic nonlinear systems with random data dropouts. The data dropout is modeled by the conventional Bernoulli random variable to describe the successful transmission or loss. Both intermittent and successive ILC are considered, where the former stops updating if no information is received, while the latter keeps updating based on the latest available data. It is strictly proved the almost sure convergence of both algorithms. The simulations on a mechanical model are provided to show the comparisons and effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.