Formulation and optimization control of a class of networked evolutionary games with switched topologies

This paper studies the algebraic formulation and optimization control for a class of networked evolutionary games with switched topologies via the semi-tensor product method. First, an algebraic expression is formulated for the given networked evolutionary games, based on which, the behavior of corresponding evolutionary games is analyzed. Then, under some certain assumptions, the existence of fixed points for the given systems is proved and a free-type control sequence is designed to guarantee the best strategy profile reachable globally. Finally, an illustrative example is studied to support our new results.     

Global stabilization of switched control systems with time delay

In this paper, the stabilization problem of switched control systems with time delay is investigated for both linear and nonlinear cases. First, a new global stabilizability concept with respect to state feedback and switching law is given. Then, based on multiple Lyapunov functions and delay inequalities, the state feedback controller and the switching law are devised to make sure that the resulting closed-loop switched control systems with time delay are globally asymptotically stable and exponentially stable.     

Topology independent SIS process: An engineering viewpoint

A Susceptible-Infected-Susceptible (SIS) spreading process, occurring on complex networks that are characterized by a special form of contact dynamics called “acquisition exclusivity”, is studied. Assuming statistical independence of joint events, we find analytic solutions for the stationary probabilities that network nodes are infected, and more importantly, find that these solutions are independent of the network topology. We explore the possibilities to use the studied set-up as an engineering solution for controlled spreading on technological networks. In that context, an example for controlled sharing of viral countermeasures in networks is presented. Considering the high epidemic threshold that characterizes the process, “acquisition exclusivity” is suggested as a method for eradication of viral infections from networks.     

Continuous output integral sliding mode control for switched linear systems

A continuous output integral sliding mode robustification methodology for switched uncertain linear time invariant systems with state-dependent location transitions and dwell time is presented. The robustifying methodology is based on the adjustment of the super-twisting algorithm gains to assure the convergence time and the attenuation of the chattering. The use of the adjusted STA allows to reconstruct the states theoretically exactly before half of the dwell time without the usage of filters, via a continuous cascade observer. Moreover, it allows to generate a continuous control signal that is turn on after the observer has converged, guaranteeing theoretically exact compensation of the matched uncertainties/perturbations before the dwell time.     

Characterization and Artificial Neural Networks Modelling of methylene blue adsorption of biochar derived from agricultural residues: Effect of biomass type,pyrolysis temperature,particle size

Biochar has been explored as a sorbent for contaminants, soil amendment and climate change mitigation tool through carbon sequestration. Through the optimization of the pyrolysis process, biochar can be designed with qualities to suit the intended uses. Biochar samples were prepared from four particle sizes (100–2000 µm) of three different feedstocks (oak acorn shells, jift and deseeded carob pods) at different pyrolysis temperatures (300–600 °C). The effect of these combinations on the properties of the produced biochar was studied. Biochar yield decreased with increasing pyrolysis temperature for all particle sizes of the three feedstocks. Ash content, fixed carbon, thermal stability, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), specific surface area (SSA) of biochar increased with increasing pyrolysis temperature. Volatile matter and pH value at the point of zero charge (pH_pzc) of biochar decreased with increasing pyrolysis temperature. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis indicated that the surface of the biochar was rich with hydroxyl, phenolic, carbonyl and aliphatic groups. Methylene blue (MB) adsorption capacity was used as an indicator of the quality of the biochar. Artificial neural networks (ANN) model was developed to predict the quality of the biochar based on operational conditions of biochar production (parent biomass type, particle size, pyrolysis temperature). The model successfully predicted the MB adsorption capacity of the biochar. The model is a very useful tool to predict the performance of biochar for water treatment purposes or assessing the general quality of a design biochar for specific application.     

Online optimization of LTI systems under persistent attacks: Stability,tracking, and robustness

We study the stability properties of a closed-loop system composed of a dynamical plant and a feedback controller, the latter generating control signals that can be compromised by a malicious attacker. We consider two classes of feedback controllers: a static output-feedback controller, and a dynamical gradient-flow controller that seeks to steer the output of the plant towards the solution of a convex optimization problem. In both cases, we analyze the stability properties of the closed-loop system under a class of switching attacks that persistently modify the control inputs generated by the controllers. Our stability analysis leverages the framework of hybrid dynamical systems, Lyapunov-based arguments for switching systems with unstable modes, and singular perturbation theory. Our results reveal that, under a suitable time-scale separation between plant and controllers, the stability of the interconnected system can be preserved when the attack occurs with “sufficiently low frequency” in any bounded time interval. We present simulation results in a power-grid example that corroborate the technical findings.     

Adaptive compensation of uncertain Euler–Lagrange systems with multiple time-varying actuator faults

This work proposes the command tracking problem for uncertain Euler–Lagrange (EL) systems with multiple partial loss of effectiveness (PLOE) actuator faults. Compared to existing fault-tolerant controllers for EL systems, the proposed adaptive controller accounts for parametric uncertainties in the system and multiple time-varying actuator fault parameters. The proposed method can also handle an infinite number of fault cases. The closed-loop fault-tolerant system is treated as a switched dynamical system, and a switched system stability is established using multiple Lyapunov functions. It is shown that all signals are bounded in each sub-interval and at the switching instances, and asymptotic tracking can be obtained only for a finite number of fault occurrences, whereas tracking error is bounded for the infinite case. Finally, a simulation example on a robotic manipulator is presented to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.     

Beyond the LAN: Ethernet’s Evolution into the Public Network

This article details the evolution of Ethernet into Gigabit Ethernet and how this LAN-based technology has undergone major transformations over time. From its data rates and distances to supported media and functionality, Ethernet has greatly improved, enabling it to surmount many of its former limitations and in so doing to expand beyond the LAN into the MAN and now even the WAN. In this article, Pioneer Consulting explores the evolution further by focusing on some of the major technological directions in the Ethernet equipment industry.     

Analysis of Wavelength-Routed Optical Burst-Switched Network Performance

This paper studies a novel scalable network architecture combining optical burst switching (OBS) with dynamic wavelength allocation to guarantee quality of service (QoS), forming a wavelength-routed optical burst-switched network. All processing and buffering functions are concentrated at the network edge and bursts are assigned to fast tuneable lasers and routed over a bufferless optical transport core using dynamic wavelength assignment. Different burst aggregation mechanisms are evaluated for a range of traffic statistics in terms of delay and packet loss rate. New network performance parameters in an analytical model quantify the advantages of dynamic wavelength allocation. The results define the operational gain achievable with dynamic wavelength assignment compared to quasi-static wavelength routed optical networks.