Disturbance rejection by dynamic output feedback: A structural solution (Q4398697)

Consider the finite-dimensional linear, time-invariant system \[ \dot x=Ax+ Bu +Dh,\quad z=Ex,\quad y=Cx. \] Here \(h\) is the disturbance, \(z\) is the to-be-controlled output, and \(y\) is the measured output. The disturbance rejection problem with dynamical output feedback is to design a dynamical system \(u=Ky\) in closed-loop such that the disturbance has no influence on \(z\). Using the geometric theory, this problem has been solved [see \textit{J. M. Schumacher}, IEEE Trans. Autom. Control AC-25, 1133-1138 (1980; Zbl 0483.93035)]. In this article the authors solve this problem in terms of infinite zeros. Hence using an algebraic approach. They present an algorithm for calculating the needed transfer function out of the system data. Furthermore, they give necessary and sufficient algebraic conditions such that the closed loop is stable. This is the algebraic counterpart of the geometric characterization given by \textit{J. C. Willems} and \textit{C. Commault} [SIAM J. Control Optimization 19, 490-504 (1981; Zbl 0467.93036)].