Optimal Control and the Calculus of Variations - Hardcover

Pinch, Enid R.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0198532172 ISBN 13: 9780198532170

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1993

Synopsis

Optimal control is a modern development of the calculus of variations and classical optimization theory. For this reason, this introduction to the theory of optimal control starts by considering the problem of minimizing a function of many variables. It moves from there, via an exposition of the calculus of variations, to the main subject which is the optimal control of systems governed by ordinary differential equations. This approach should enable the student to see the essential unity of the three important areas of mathematics, and also allow optimal control and the Pontryagin maximum principle to be placed in a proper context. A good knowledge of analysis, algebra, and methods is assumed. All the theorems are carefully proved, and there are many worked examples and exercises for the student. Although this book is written for the advanced undergraduate mathematician, engineers and scientists with a taste for mathematics will find it a useful text.

About this title

From the Back Cover

This book provides the core material for undergraduate courses on optimal control, the modern development that has grown out of the calculus of variations and classical optimization theory.

About the Author

Enid R. Pinch is at University of Manchester.

Edition details

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 1993
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0198532172
• ISBN 13: 9780198532170
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 192