9303356 Jacobson The purpose of the proposed research is to study robust system identification methods. Robust system identification algorithms produce models that are appropriate for use in robust design. In particular, the resulting models are accompanied by a quantification of the identification error which allows a subsequent design to proceed against a family of possible systems. The combination of the envisioned robust system identification methods from this research program with robust design procedures from control and communication theory will enable important technologies to operate at higher performance and reliability than they currently are able to attain. The research issues that will be addressed in this program are the continued development of existing robust system identification methods (in particular, to address practical implementation issues), the extension of robust system identification methods to classes of system models not previously addressed (in particular, to time varying and finite time duration processes) and the application of the system identification algorithms developed to important technological areas. The application of the system identification algorithms developed to important technological areas. The relevant application studies that are part of the proposed research program are robust detection techniques involving underwater acoustics and high performance control of a flexible structure. ***
