Variable Structure Systems

Variable structure systems, or sliding mode control systems, are non-linear automatic control systems whose structures are deliberately allowed to change, so that robust performance is obtained. It allows the design of high performance control systems that can be reliably and easily implemented at low cost. Although the basic theory is mature, the theory and the associated control system design methodologies are less well known to many control engineers. This new text seeks to redress the gap, and is split into three parts: the basics of sliding mode control, new trends in sliding mode control and applications of sliding mode control.

The book will be of interest to all engineers working with control systems. Mathematical and engineering concepts are discussed thoroughly and many numerical design examples are included so that readers can quickly understand the design methodologies and their application to practical problems.

Asif Sabanovic is a Full Professor at Sabanci University, Istanbul. Between 1970 and 1991 he worked at the Energoinvest-Institute for Control and Computer Sciences, Sarajevo. His fields of interest include control systems, motion control, robotics, mechatronics and power electronics.

Leonid M. Fridman has more than 20 years experience working in the field of variable structure systems in Universities both in Russia and Mexico. He is now a Professor of Engineering at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).

Sarah Spurgeon is a Professor in the Control and Instrumentation Group at the University of Leicester, UK. Her fields of interest include the theory and application of sliding mode based control and estimation techniques.