arXiv subjects

Johannes Schiffer

Publications and source records attributed to Johannes Schiffer.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Distributed Adaptive Control for DC Power Distribution in Hybrid-Electric Aircraft: Design and Experimental Validation

To reduce CO2 emissions and tackle increasing fuel costs, the aviation industry is swiftly moving towards the electrification of aircraft. From the viewpoint of systems and control, a key challenge brought by this transition corresponds to the management and safe operation of the propulsion system's onboard electrical power distribution network. In this work, for a series-hybrid-electric propulsion system, we propose a distributed adaptive controller for regulating the voltage of a DC bus that energizes the electricity-based propulsion system. The proposed controller -- whose design is based on principles of back-stepping, adaptive, and passivity-based control techniques -- also enables the proportional sharing of the electric load among multiple converter-interfaced sources, which reduces the likelihood of over-stressing individual sources. Compared to existing control strategies, our method ensures stable, convergent, and accurate voltage regulation and load-sharing even if the effects of power lines of unknown resistances and inductances are considered. The performance of the proposed control scheme is experimentally validated and compared to state-of-the-art controllers in a power hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) environment.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2026

Delay-Robust Primal-Dual Dynamics for Distributed Optimization

Continuous-time primal-dual gradient dynamics (PDGD) is an ubiquitous approach for dynamically solving constrained distributed optimization problems. Yet, the distributed nature of the dynamics makes it prone to communication uncertainties, especially time delays. To mitigate this effect, we propose a delay-robust continuous-time PDGD. The dynamics is obtained by augmenting the standard PDGD with an auxiliary state coupled through a gain matrix, while preserving the optimal solution. Then, we present sufficient tuning conditions for this gain matrix in the form of linear matrix inequalities, which ensure uniform asymptotic stability in the presence of bounded, time-varying delays. The criterion is derived via the Lyapunov-Krasovskii method. A numerical example illustrates the improved delay robustness of our approach compared to the standard PDGD under large, time-varying delays.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2026

A Primal-Dual-Based Active Fault-Tolerant Control Scheme for Cyber-Physical Systems: Application to DC Microgrids

We consider the problem of active fault-tolerant control in cyber-physical systems composed of strictly passive linear-time invariant dynamic subsystems. We cast the problem as a constrained optimization problem and propose an augmented primal-dual gradient dynamics-based fault-tolerant control framework that enforces network-level constraints and provides optimality guarantees for the post-fault steady-state operation. By suitably interconnecting the primal-dual algorithm with the cyber-physical dynamics, we provide sufficient conditions under which the resulting closed-loop system possesses a unique and exponentially stable equilibrium point that satisfies the Karush--Kuhn--Tucker (KKT) conditions of the constrained problem. The framework's effectiveness is illustrated through numerical experiments on a DC microgrid.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2025

An Input-Output Data-Driven Dissipativity Approach for Compositional Stability Certification of Interconnected LTI MIMO Systems

We propose an input-output data-driven framework for certifying the stability of interconnected multiple-input-multiple-output linear time-invariant discrete-time systems via QSR-dissipativity. That is, by using measured input-output trajectories of each subsystem, we verify dissipative properties and extract local passivity indices without requiring an explicit model identification. These passivity indices are then used to derive conditions under which the equilibrium of the interconnected system is stable. In particular, the framework identifies how the lack of passivity in some subsystems can be compensated by surpluses in others. The proposed approach enables a compositional stability analysis by combining subsystem-level conditions into a criterion valid for the overall interconnected system. We illustrate via a numerical case study, how to compute channel-wise passivity indices and infer stability guarantees directly from data with the proposed method.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2025

A Port-Hamiltonian Modeling Approach for Integrated Hydrogen Systems

Hydrogen's growing role in the transition towards climate-neutral energy systems necessitates structured modeling frameworks. Existing gas network models, largely developed for natural gas, fail to capture hydrogen systems distinct properties, particularly the coupling of hydrogen pipes with electrolyzers, fuel cells, and electrically driven compressors. In this work, we present a unified systematic port-Hamiltonian (pH) framework for modeling hydrogen systems, which inherently provides a passive input-output map of the overall interconnected system and, thus, a promising foundation for structured analysis, control and optimization of this type of newly emerging energy systems.

math.OC↗

arXiv2025

Lipschitz-Based Robustness Certification for Recurrent Neural Networks via Convex Relaxation

Robustness certification against bounded input noise or adversarial perturbations is increasingly important for deployment recurrent neural networks (RNNs) in safety-critical control applications. To address this challenge, we present RNN-SDP, a relaxation based method that models the RNN's layer interactions as a convex problem and computes a certified upper bound on the Lipschitz constant via semidefinite programming (SDP). We also explore an extension that incorporates known input constraints to further tighten the resulting Lipschitz bounds. RNN-SDP is evaluated on a synthetic multi-tank system, with upper bounds compared to empirical estimates. While incorporating input constraints yields only modest improvements, the general method produces reasonably tight and certifiable bounds, even as sequence length increases. The results also underscore the often underestimated impact of initialization errors, an important consideration for applications where models are frequently re-initialized, such as model predictive control (MPC).

eess.SY↗

arXiv2025

Complex-Phase, Data-Driven Identification of Grid-Forming Inverter Dynamics

The increasing integration of renewable energy sources (RESs) into power systems requires the deployment of grid-forming inverters to ensure a stable operation. Accurate modeling of these devices is necessary. In this paper, a system identification approach to obtain low-dimensional models of grid-forming inverters is presented. The proposed approach is based on a Hammerstein-Wiener parametrization of the normal-form model. The normal-form is a gray-box model that utilizes complex frequency and phase to capture non-linear inverter dynamics. The model is validated on two well-known control strategies: droop-control and dispatchable virtual oscillators. Simulations and hardware-in-the-loop experiments demonstrate that the normal-form accurately models inverter dynamics across various operating conditions. The approach shows great potential for enhancing the modeling of RES-dominated power systems, especially when component models are unavailable or computationally expensive.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2025

Exact Time-Varying Turnpikes for Dynamic Operation of District Heating Networks

District heating networks (DHNs) are crucial for decarbonizing the heating sector. Yet, their efficient and reliable operation requires the coordination of multiple heat producers and the consideration of future demands. Predictive and optimization-based control is commonly used to address this task, but existing results for DHNs do not account for time-varying problem aspects. Since the turnpike phenomenon can serve as a basis for model predictive control design and analysis, this paper examines its role in DHN optimization by analyzing the underlying optimal control problem with time-varying prices and demands. That is, we derive conditions for the existence of a unique time-varying singular arc, which constitutes the time varying turnpike, and we provide its closed-form expression. Additionally, we present converse turnpike results showing a exact time-varying case implies strict dissipativity of the optimal control problem. A numerical example illustrates our findings.

math.OC↗

arXiv2025

Interturn Fault Detection in IPMSMs: Two Adaptive Observer-based Solutions

In this paper we address the problem of online detection of inter-turn short-circuit faults (ITSCFs) that occur in permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs). We propose two solutions to this problem: (i) a very simple linear observer and (ii) a generalized parameter estimation based observer, that incorporates a high performance estimator -- with both observers detecting the short-circuit current and the fault intensity. Although the first solution guarantees the detection of the fault exponentially fast, the rate of convergence is fully determined by the motor parameters that, in some cases, may be too slow. The second observer, on the other hand, ensures finite convergence time under the weakest assumption of interval excitation. To make the observers adaptive, we develop a parameter estimator that, in the case of isotropic PMSMs, estimates on-line (exponentially fast) the resistance and inductance of the motor. It should be underscored that, in contrast with existing observers (including the widely popular Kalman filter) that provide indirect information of the fault current, our observers provide explicit one -- namely the amplitude of the fault current. The performance of both observers, in their linear and generalized parameter estimation-based versions, is illustrated with realistic simulation studies.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2025

A Multiple Artificial Potential Functions Approach for Collision Avoidance in UAV Systems

Collision avoidance is a problem largely studied in robotics, particularly in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) applications. Among the main challenges in this area are hardware limitations, the need for rapid response, and the uncertainty associated with obstacle detection. Artificial potential functions (APOFs) are a prominent method to address these challenges. However, existing solutions lack assurances regarding closed-loop stability and may result in chattering effects. Motivated by this, we propose a control method for static obstacle avoidance based on multiple artificial potential functions (MAPOFs). We derive tuning conditions on the control parameters that ensure the stability of the final position. The stability proof is established by analyzing the closed-loop system using tools from hybrid systems theory. Furthermore, we validate the performance of the MAPOF control through simulations, showcasing its effectiveness in avoiding static obstacles.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2024

State Observer for the Fourth-order Model of a Salient Pole Synchronous Generator with Stator Losses: Known and Partially Unknown Input Cases

In this paper we study the question of how to reconstruct the state of a power system using Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs). In our previous research we proved that this question has an affirmative answer imposing some rather strict structural assumptions: namely, neglecting the generator rotors saliency and assuming that the stator resistance of the synchronous generator is zero. It was shown in simulations that the performance of the proposed observer was sensitive to these assumptions, observing a transient quality degradation for realistic simulations not imposing these assumptions. Moreover, it was assumed in our previous work that the mechanical power and the field voltage are available for measurement, a scenario that it is not always realistic. In this paper we accomplish two ambitious objectives. First, we propose a new observer that does not impose the simplifying assumptions on the generator model. Secondly, we consider the more realistic scenario where only mechanical power is available for measurement. That is, we solve a problem of state reconstruction of a nonlinear system with partially known input measurements -- that is well-known to be a very challenging task. The design of the first observer relies on two recent developments proposed by the authors, a parameter estimation based approach to the problem of state estimation and the use of the Dynamic Regressor Extension and Mixing (DREM) technique to estimate these parameters. The use of DREM allows us to overcome the problem of lack of persistent excitation that stymies the application of standard parameter estimation designs. On the other hand, the observer for the partial input measurement scenario relies on the clever exploitation of the systems model. Simulation results illustrates the good performance of the proposed observers.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2024

Consensus + Innovations Approach for Online Distributed Multi-Area Inertia Estimation

The reduction of overall system inertia in modern power systems due to the increasing deployment of distributed energy resources is generally recognized as a major issue for system stability. Consequently, real-time monitoring of system inertia is critical to ensure a reliable and cost-effective system operation. Large-scale power systems are typically managed by multiple transmission system operators, making it difficult to have a central entity with access to global measurement data, which is usually required for estimating the overall system inertia. We address this problem by proposing a fully distributed inertia estimation algorithm with rigorous analytical convergence guarantees. This method requires only peer-to-peer sharing of local parameter estimates between neighboring control areas, eliminating the need for a centralized collection of real-time measurements. We robustify the algorithm in the presence of typical power system disturbances and demonstrate its performance in simulations based on the well-known New England IEEE-39 bus system.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2024

Model Predictive Control of District Heating Grids Using Stabilizing Terminal Ingredients

The transformation of fossil fuel-based district heating grids (DHGs) to CO$_2$-neutral DHGs requires the development of novel operating strategies. Model predictive control (MPC) is a promising approach, as knowledge about future heat demand and heat supply can be incorporated into the control, operating constraints can be ensured and the stability of the closed-loop system can be guaranteed. In this paper, we employ MPC for DHGs to control the system mass flows and injected heat flows. Following common practice, we derive terminal ingredients to stabilize given steady state temperatures and storage masses in the DHG. To apply MPC with terminal ingredients, it is crucial that the system under control is stabilizable. By exploiting the particular system structure, we give a sufficient condition for the stabilizability in terms of the grid topology and hence, for the applicability of the MPC scheme to DHGs. Furthermore, we demonstrate the practicability of the application of MPC to an exemplary DHG in a numerical case study.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2024

A Predictive Operation Controller for an Electro-Thermal Microgrid Utilizing Variable Flow Temperatures

We propose an optimal operation control strategy for an electro-thermal microgrid. Compared to existing work, our approach increases flexibility by operating the thermal network with variable flow temperatures and in that way explicitly exploits its inherent storage capacities. To this end, the microgrid is represented by a multi-layer network composed of an electrical and a thermal layer. We show that the system behavior can be represented by a discrete-time state model derived from DC power flow approximations and 1d incompressible Euler equations. Both layers are interconnected via heat pumps. By combining this model with desired operating objectives and constraints, we obtain a constrained convex optimization problem. This is used to derive a model predictive control scheme for the optimal operation of electro-thermal microgrids. The performance of the proposed operation control algorithm is demonstrated in a numerical case study.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2024

A robust consensus + innovations-based distributed parameter estimator

While distributed parameter estimation has been extensively studied in the literature, little has been achieved in terms of robust analysis and tuning methods in the presence of disturbances. However, disturbances such as measurement noise and model mismatches occur in any real-world setting. Therefore, providing tuning methods with specific robustness guarantees would greatly benefit the practical application. To address these issues, we recast the error dynamics of a continuous-time version of the widely used consensus + innovations-based distributed parameter estimator to reflect the error dynamics induced by the classical gradient descent algorithm. This paves the way for the construction of a strong Lyapunov function. Based on this result, we derive linear matrix inequality-based tools for tuning the algorithm gains such that a guaranteed upper bound on the L2-gain with respect to parameter variations, measurement noise, and disturbances in the communication channels is achieved. An application example illustrates the efficiency of the method.

math.OC↗

arXiv2022

PMU-based dynamic state and parameter estimation for dynamic security assessment in power systems -- Ultimate boundedness in the presence of measurement noise

Dynamic state and parameter estimation methods for dynamic security assessment in power systems are becoming increasingly important for system operators. Usually, the data used for this type of applications stems from phasor measurement units (PMUs) and is corrupted by noise. In general, the impact of the latter may significantly deteriorate the estimation performance. This motivates the present work, in which it is proven that the state and parameter estimation method proposed by part of the authors in [1] and extended in [2] features the property that the estimation errors are ultimately bounded in the presence of PMU measurement data corrupted by bounded noise. The analysis is conducted for the third-order flux-decay model of a synchronous generator and holds independently of the employed automatic voltage regulator and power system stabilizer (if present). The analysis is illustrated by simulations.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2022

Dynamic state and parameter estimation in multi-machine power systems - Experimental demonstration using real-world PMU-measurements

Dynamic state and parameter estimation (DSE) plays a key role for reliably monitoring and operating future, power-electronics-dominated power systems. While DSE is a very active research field, experimental applications of proposed algorithms to real-world systems remain scarce. This motivates the present paper, in which we demonstrate the effectiveness of a DSE algorithm previously presented by parts of the authors with real-world data collected by a Phasor Measurement Unit (PMU) at a substation close to a power plant within the extra-high voltage grid of Germany. To this end, at first we derive a suitable mapping of the real-world PMU-measurements recorded at a substation close to the power plant to the terminal bus of the power plants' synchronous generator (SG). This mapping considers the high-voltage (HV) transmission line, the tap-changing transformer and the auxiliary system of the power plant. Next, we introduce several practically motivated extensions to the estimation algorithm, which significantly improve its practical performance with real-world measurements. Finally, we successfully validate the algorithm experimentally in an auto- as well as a cross-validation.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2021

Data-Driven Control for Linear Discrete-Time Delay Systems

The increasing ease of obtaining and processing data together with the growth in system complexity has sparked the interest in moving from conventional model-based control design towards data-driven concepts. Since in many engineering applications time delays naturally arise and are often a source of instability, we contribute to the data-driven control field by introducing data-based formulas for state feedback control design in linear discrete-time time-delay systems with uncertain delays. With the proposed approach, the problems of system stabilization as well as of guaranteed cost and $H_{\infty}$ control design are treated in a unified manner. Extensions to determine the system delays and to ensure robustness in the event of noisy data are also provided.

math.OC↗