On the Fattorini Criterion for Approximate Controllability and Stabilizability of Parabolic Systems

In this paper, we consider the well-known Fattorini's criterion for approximate controllability of infinite dimensional linear systems of type $y'=A y+Bu$. We precise the result proved by H. O. Fattorini in \cite{Fattorini1966} for bounded input $B$, in the case where $B$ can be unbounded or in the case of finite-dimensional controls. More precisely, we prove that if Fattorini's criterion is satisfied and if the set of geometric multiplicities of $A$ is bounded then approximate controllability can be achieved with finite dimensional controls. An important consequence of this result consists in using the Fattorini's criterion to obtain the feedback stabilizability of linear and nonlinear parabolic systems with feedback controls in a finite dimensional space. In particular, for systems described by partial differential equations, such a criterion reduces to a unique continuation theorem for a stationary system. We illustrate such a method by tackling some coupled Navier-Stokes type equations (MHD system and micropolar fluid system) and we sketch a systematic procedure relying on Fattorini's criterion for checking stabilizability of such nonlinear systems. In that case, the unique continuation theorems rely on local Carleman inequalities for stationary Stokes type systems

Destabilization of free convection by weak rotation

This study offers an explanation of a recently observed effect of destabilization of free convective flows by weak rotation. After studying several models where flows are driven by a simultaneous action of convection and rotation, it is concluded that the destabilization is observed in the cases where centrifugal force acts against main convective circulation. At relatively low Prandtl numbers this counter action can split the main vortex into two counter rotating vortices, where the interaction leads to instability. At larger Prandtl numbers, the counter action of the centrifugal force steepens an unstable thermal stratification, which triggers Rayleigh-B\'enard instability mechanism. Both cases can be enhanced by advection of azimuthal velocity disturbances towards the axis, where they grow and excite perturbations of the radial velocity. The effect was studied considering a combined convective/rotating flow in a cylinder with a rotating lid and a parabolic temperature profile at the sidewall. Next, explanations of the destabilization effect for rotating magnetic field driven flow and melt flow in a Czochralski crystal growth model were derived

Relaminarisation of Re_{\tau} = 100 channel flow with globally stabilising linear feedback control

The problems of nonlinearity and high dimension have so far prevented a complete solution of the control of turbulent flow. Addressing the problem of nonlinearity, we propose a flow control strategy which ensures that the energy of any perturbation to the target profile decays monotonically. The controller's estimate of the flow state is similarly guaranteed to converge to the true value. We present a one-time off-line synthesis procedure, which generalises to accommodate more restrictive actuation and sensing arrangements, with conditions for existence for the controller given in this case. The control is tested in turbulent channel flow ($Re_\tau=100$) using full-domain sensing and actuation on the wall-normal velocity. Concentrated at the point of maximum inflection in the mean profile, the control directly counters the supply of turbulence energy arising from the interaction of the wall-normal perturbations with the flow shear. It is found that the control is only required for the larger-scale motions, specifically those above the scale of the mean streak spacing. Minimal control effort is required once laminar flow is achieved. The response of the near-wall flow is examined in detail, with particular emphasis on the pressure and wall-normal velocity fields, in the context of Landahl's theory of sheared turbulence

Traveling Wave Fronts and Localized Traveling Wave Convection in Binary Fluid Mixtures

Nonlinear fronts between spatially extended traveling wave convection (TW) and quiescent fluid and spatially localized traveling waves (LTWs) are investigated in quantitative detail in the bistable regime of binary fluid mixtures heated from below. A finite-difference method is used to solve the full hydrodynamic field equations in a vertical cross section of the layer perpendicular to the convection roll axes. Results are presented for ethanol-water parameters with several strongly negative separation ratios where TW solutions bifurcate subcritically. Fronts and LTWs are compared with each other and similarities and differences are elucidated. Phase propagation out of the quiescent fluid into the convective structure entails a unique selection of the latter while fronts and interfaces where the phase moves into the quiescent state behave differently. Interpretations of various experimental observations are suggested.Comment: 46 pages, 11 figures. Accepted for publication in Phys. Rev.