Successive Linearization NMPC for a Class of Stochastic Nonlinear Systems

A receding horizon control methodology is proposed for systems with nonlinear dynamics, additive stochastic uncertainty, and both hard and soft (probabilistic) input/state constraints. Jacobian linearization about predicted trajectories is used to derive a sequence of convex optimization problems. Constraints are handled through the construction of tubes and an associated Markov chain model. The parameters defining the tubes are optimized simultaneously with the predicted future control trajectory via online linear programming. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg

Studies of the Relativistic Electron Source and Related Phenomena in Petawatt Laser Matter Interactions

The interaction of laser radiation with solid targets at 1 petawatt power and intensity up to 3 x 10{sup 20} Wcm{sup -2} has been studied with emphasis on relativistic electrons and high-energy ions. Secondary effects including Bremsstrahlung radiation, nuclear interactions and heating have been characterized. A collimated beam of protons with up to 55 MeV energy is emitted normal to the rear surface of thin targets and its characteristics and origin are discussed. The significance of the data for radiography, fast ignition and proton beam applications is summarized