Two new extensions to L1 adaptive control theory

This thesis introduces two new extensions to L1 adaptive control theory. The first is an L1 adaptive state feedback controller with generalized proportional adaptation law for a class of linear systems with input–gain uncertainties and unmatched nonlinear disturbances. The proportional adaptation law provides an adaptive estimate that is directly proportional to the error between the output of the system and the state predictor. One advantage of the new adaptive law is the additional phase margin in the estimation loop, allowing for accommodation of first order sensor dynamics in the state predictor. An additional benefit is the reduction of the required computational resources, since the error bounds reduce at a rate directly proportional to the adaptation gain as compared to the square root of the adaptation gain achieved by the L1 adaptive controllers using gradient descent adaptation laws. In addition, an L1 adaptive funnel controller and variable dependent adaptation law are provided as particular cases for the generalized proportional framework. Also presented is the connection between the generalized proportional feedback law and previous L1 switching controller. The second extension is an L1 adaptive controller for a class of uncertain systems in the presence of time and output dependent unknown nonlinearities and uncertain input matrix with performance specifications defined via a time–varying reference system using output feedback. It is shown that both extensions exhibit the standard characteristics of the L1 adaptive control theory: scaling of transient responses, a guaranteed time–delay margin at high adaptation rates, and the trade off between robustness and performance is determined by the design of a low pass filter

Fault tolerant control of a quadrotor using L-1 adaptive control

Purpose – The growing use of small unmanned rotorcraft in civilian applications means that safe operation is increasingly important. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the fault tolerant properties to faults in the actuators of an L1 adaptive controller for a quadrotor vehicle. Design/methodology/approach – L1 adaptive control provides fast adaptation along with decoupling between adaptation and robustness. This makes the approach a suitable candidate for fault tolerant control of quadrotor and other multirotor vehicles. In the paper, the design of an L1 adaptive controller is presented. The controller is compared to a fixed-gain LQR controller. Findings – The L1 adaptive controller is shown to have improved performance when subject to actuator faults, and a higher range of actuator fault tolerance. Research limitations/implications – The control scheme is tested in simulation of a simple model that ignores aerodynamic and gyroscopic effects. Hence for further work, testing with a more complete model is recommended followed by implementation on an actual platform and flight test. The effect of sensor noise should also be considered along with investigation into the influence of wind disturbances and tolerance to sensor failures. Furthermore, quadrotors cannot tolerate total failure of a rotor without loss of control of one of the degrees of freedom, this aspect requires further investigation. Practical implications – Applying the L1 adaptive controller to a hexrotor or octorotor would increase the reliability of such vehicles without recourse to methods that require fault detection schemes and control reallocation as well as providing tolerance to a total loss of a rotor. Social implications – In order for quadrotors and other similar unmanned air vehicles to undertake many proposed roles, a high level of safety is required. Hence the controllers should be fault tolerant. Originality/value – Fault tolerance to partial actuator/effector faults is demonstrated using an L1 adaptive controller