Robert Zidek

Project: Drift Counteraction Optimal Control

Work Description:
Currently developing optimal controllers for drift counteraction, where many engineering systems are subject to drift caused by, for example, large persistent disturbances or finite resources (fuel, energy, component life etc.) being continuously depleted. Specifically, the goal is to maximize the time until prescribed constraints are violated for the first time. For example, this work can be used to extend the operational time of systems or to maximize revenue/yield before constraints are violated. The control strategies have been applied to spacecraft attitude control, GEO station keeping, and other dynamic systems. Also working on driving policies for autonomous vehicles, where the other cars are viewed as random disturbances.