Computer-aided design and analysis for a class of nonlinear systems

A description is given of a computer-aided control system design package, NLCON, that supports analysis and design functions for single-input/single-output nonlinear control systems with a single nonlinearity. The single nonlinearity can be one of seven nonlinearities commonly encountered in mechanical systems, and its location within the system is not restricted. The controller design benefits from designer experience, but it is facilitated by the software package, since program operation is highly interactive and the interface is user friendly. The analysis functions supported include sinusoidal-input describing functions and limit-cycle analysis, frequency-response determination, and jump-resonance analysis. Design functions include procedures for compensator modification to modify limit-cycle and jump-resonance behavior. A design advisory is provided for some simple design situations. Examples to illustrate various facets of program operation are presented.<>