Output feedback boundary control of series interconnections of 2 x 2 semilinear hyperbolic systems

In this paper, we present an output feedback controller for systems consisting of n 2 × 2 semilinear hyperbolic systems in series interconnection where actuation and sensing are restricted to one boundary. The output-feedback control law consists of a state-feedback controller combined with an observer. The control and estimation laws are based on the dynamics on the characteristic lines of the hyperbolic system, and achieve stabilization of the origin or tracking at one location, and full state estimation, respectively, globally and in minimum time. We demonstrate the controller performance in a numerical example, and apply the controller to a relevant disturbance rejection problem in oil well drilling