Finite Time Observation and Control Methods for Nonlinear Systems With Applications to Cyber-Physical and Network Systems

Although much work focuses on asymptotically converging observation and control algorithms, it has been shown that the finite-time convergence property (also called fast non-asymptotic convergence) is often desirable in the context of control and observation, for example to circumvent the separation principles problem in the treatment of nonlinear systems, in fault detection or identification problems, or to solve in finite time the left inversion and state observation problem. This type of convergence, used for regulation and error estimation, is also known to increase the reliability of intelligent distributed actuators and sensors in complex scenarios, such as in interconnected cyber-physical systems.



This research theme aims to develop innovative finite-time control and estimation algorithms for nonlinear systems (including hybrid, delay, and PDE systems). The methodological tools developed include sliding mode theory and homogeneous systems, as well as algebraic methods. Works involving fixed-time or hyperexponential convergence are also welcome.



This topic invites contributions that address the problem of any innovative methods and algorithms leading to finite time control and observation and nonlinear systems. We welcome research contributions addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Novel theoretical frameworks for finite-time and fixed-time convergence in control and observation
- Finite-time algorithms for hybrid, delayed, and PDE-governed nonlinear systems
- Sliding mode control, homogeneous system approaches, and algebraic methods for rapid convergence
- Fault detection, identification, and inversion techniques based on finite-time principles
- Real-world case studies, implementations, and experimental validation in cyber-physical system contexts

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Original Research
• Perspective
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review

Keywords: Finite time observation and control, Nonlinear systems, Cyber-Physical Systems, Network Systems, Real process appilcations

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.