Solution of multipoint boundary value problems via block-pulse functions (Q1096355)

The problem of multipoint boundary conditions for time-varying ordinary differential systems is considered. The integral form is used for each equation and its approximation is obtained by use of block-pulse functions which gives a piecewise constant approximate solution. The problem is reduced to that of solving a linear system of algebraic equations. The technique proposed by the authors is applied to the problem of state and parameter identification for nonlinear systems via quasilinearization. It reduces the computational effort involved by other techniques. Numerical tests are given for the van der Pol equation.