Observer design and output feedback stabilization for nonlinear multivariable systems with diffusion PDE-governed sensor dynamics

This paper addresses the problems of observer design and output feedback stabilization for a class of nonlinear multivariable systems, where the nonlinear system dynamics are described by ordinary differential equations (ODEs), and the sensor dynamics are governed by diffusion partial differential equations (PDEs). Based on the Luenberger observer theory, a Luenberger-type PDE-ODE cascaded observer is derived to estimate the state variables of the system. Then, an observer-based output feedback stabilizing controller is developed. The exponential stability of both the observer error system and closed-loop control system is proven via the Lyapunov direct method. Finally, numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed design methods.