In this paper, we present a novel two-step strategy for static output-feedback controller design. In the first step, an optimal state-feedback controller is obtained by means of a linear matrix inequality (LMI) formulation. In the second step, a transformation of the LMI variables is used to derive a suitable LMI formulation for the static output-feedback controller. This design strategy can be applied to a wide range of practical problems, including vibration control of large structures, control of offshore wind turbines, control of automotive suspensions, vehicle driving assistance and disturbance rejection. Moreover, it allows designing decentralized and semi-decentralized static output-feedback controllers by setting a suitable zero-nonzero structure on the LMI variables. To illustrate the application of the proposed methodology, two centralized static velocity-feedback H-Infinity controllers and two fully decentralized static velocity-feedback H-Infinity controllers are designed for the seismic protection of a five-story building.

Peer Reviewed