Transfer functions and operator theory (Q1088138)

A transfer function is an operator or matrix function of a complex variable \(\lambda\) of the form \(D+C(\lambda -A)^{-1}B\). This concept has its origin in systems theory and is closely related to that of a realization. The purpose of the paper is to show that transfer functions serve as an important tool in dealing with certain problems in operator and matrix theory. This is illustrated with a variety of material taken from existing literature. Among the topics discussed are Minimal Factorization, Inverse Fourier Transforms, The Riemann-Hilbert Boundary Value Problem, Wiener-Hopf Factorization, Wiener-Hopf Integral Equations, the Transport Equation and Model Reduction. There is also a brief discussion of exponentially dichotomous operators. This type of operator - a generalization of \(C_ 0\)-semigroup generators (of negative exponential type) - appears in a natural way in situations where the transfer function W(\(\lambda)\) is not analytic at \(\infty\), and (hence) at least one of the operators A, B or C is unbounded. The paper contains an extensive list of references.