A non-linear parabolic control problem with non-homogeneous boundary condition—convergence of Galerkin approximation

The paper is concerned with optimal control problem for a non-linear parabolic equation with non-homogenous boundary condition and quadratic cost. The control is acting in a nonlinear equation. We derive some results on the existence of optimal controls. Then we treat optimal control problem by Galerkin method and we prove the convergence of optimal values for approximated control problems to the one for the original problem. Finally, we apply the results to give a simple example. © 1997 by B. G. Teubner Stuttgart–John Wiley & Sons Ltd.