$\mathcal{H}_2/\mathcal{H}_\infty$ Optimal Control with Sparse Sensing and Actuation

Abstract: In this paper, we present novel convex optimization formulations for designing full-state and output-feedback controllers with sparse actuation that achieve user-specified $\mathcal{H}2$ and $\mathcal{H}\infty$ performance criteria. For output-feedback control, we extend these formulations to simultaneously design control laws with sparse actuation and sensing. The sparsity is induced through the minimization of a weighted $\ell_1$ norm, promoting the efficient use of sensors and actuators while maintaining desired closed-loop performance. The proposed methods are applied to a nonlinear structural dynamics problem, demonstrating the advantages of simultaneous optimization of the control law, sensing, and actuation architecture in realizing an efficient closed-loop system.