On observability of singular linear hybrid systems (Q2572187)

A hybrid singular system is considered with a ``continuous'' state \(x(t)\) and a discrete state \(y_k\). The state \(x(t)\) is described by the linear differential-algebraic equation \[ A\dot{x}(t) = B x(t) + C_k y_k \] on time intervals \(T_k\) and \(A\) is singular. The state \(y_k\) is given by the discrete equation \[ y_k = D_{k-1} x(t_{k-1}) + \sum_{i=0}^{k-1} G_{k-1,i} y_i. \] The output \(z_k(t)\) is a linear combination of both states. First, existence and uniqueness of solutions of the hybrid system with an initial value is considered, sufficient and necessary conditions are obtained. In passing by, a sufficient and necessary condition for existence and uniqueness of the solution of the differential-algebraic equation \(A\dot{x} = B x + f\) with an initial value is given. This condition makes use of a so-called ``left regularizing operator'' which transforms the differential-algebraic equation into an ordinary differential equation. Secondly, ``total observability'' is defined for the considered hybrid system and criteria of observability are studied. As a result, an algebraic condition equivalent to total observability is derived. Overall, this paper is well structured and mathematically sound.