VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

227-0207-00L 6 Credits DR , MSC D-ITET , D-MATH , D-MAVT , D-INFK , D-PHYS

You're viewing possible stale or outdated data. Please check the latest semester for more up-to-date information.

Nonlinear Systems and Control

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Eduardo Gallestey Alvarez, Dr. Raffaele Soloperto

Prerequisite: Control Systems (227-0103-00L)

VVZ CR 3.8

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:37:53

Abstract

Introduction to the area of nonlinear systems and their control. Familiarization with tools for analysis of nonlinear systems. Discussion of the various nonlinear controller design methods and their applicability to real life problems.

Objective

On completion of the course, students understand the difference between linear and nonlinear systems, know the mathematical techniques for analysing these systems, and have learnt various methods for designing controllers accounting for their characteristics. Course puts the student in the position to deploy nonlinear control techniques in real applications. Theory and exercises are combined for better understanding of the virtues and drawbacks present in the different methods.

Content

Virtually all practical control problems are of nonlinear nature. In some cases application of linear control methods leads to satisfactory controller performance. In many other cases however, only application of nonlinear analysis and control synthesis methods will guarantee achievement of the desired objectives. During the past decades mature nonlinear controller design methods have been developed and have proven themselves in applications. After an introduction of the basic methods for analysing nonlinear systems, these methods will be introduced together with a critical discussion of their pros and cons. Along the course the students will be familiarized with the basic concepts of nonlinear control theory. This course is designed as an introduction to the nonlinear control field and thus no prior knowledge of this area is required. The course builds, however, on a good knowledge of the basic concepts of linear control and mathematical analysis.

Resources

Lecture Notes

An english manuscript will be made available on the course homepage during the course.

Literature

H.K. Khalil: Nonlinear Systems, Prentice Hall, 2001.

Learning Materials (Links)

Main link
Information
Literature
Provided in course link

General Information

Language: English
Levels: DR , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: written 120 minutes
Aids: Keine

Final written exam:Six questions. Two of them are of theoretical nature, requiring knowledge of main results and methods used in the proofs. In addition, 4 exercises of more practical character should be solved.It is possible to obtain up to +0.25 bonus on the final grade through completing an optional semester project.

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	Nonlinear Systems and Control	Fri 12:15-16:00 (ML E 12)	4 h weekly

Offered In

Computational Science and Engineering Master
- Fields of Specialization
  - Systems and Control
Mathematics Master
- Application Area (Only necessary and eligible for the Master degree in Applied Mathematics. One of the application areas specified must be selected for the category Application Area for the Master degree in Applied Mathematics. At least 8 credits are required in the chosen application area. Credits from other application areas cannot be recognised for further application areas.)
  - Control and Automation
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology Master
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2018)
  - Track: Energy and Power Electronics (The core courses and specialization courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialize in the area of "Energy and Power Electronics", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Specialization Courses (These specialization courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Energy and Power Electronics", but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialization courses during the Master's Programme.)
  - Track: Systems and Control (The core courses and specialization courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialize in the area of "Systems and Control", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Core Courses (These core courses are particularly recommended for the field of "Systems and Control". You may choose core courses form other fields in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 24 credits must be obtained from core courses during the MSc EEIT.)
      - Advanced Core Courses
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2008)
  - Major Courses (A total of 42 CP must be achieved form courses during the Master Program. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Energy and Power Electronics
      - Recommended Subjects (These courses are recommended, but you are free to choose courses from any other special field. Please consult your tutor.)
    - Systems and Control
      - Core Subjects (These core subjects are particularly recommended for the field of "Systems and Control".)
Robotics, Systems and Control Master
- Core Courses
Doctorate Information Technology and Electrical Engineering (A minimum of 12 ECTS credit points must be obtained during doctoral studies (also see sub-categories for details) More Information at )
- Subject Specialisation (The courses on offer below are but a small selection out of a much larger available number of courses. Please discuss your course selection with your PhD supervisor.)
Quantum Engineering Master
- Core Courses (A minimum of 24 credits must be obtained from core courses during the MSc QE, course selection is subject to the tutor's agreement.)
  - Engineering Core Courses (These core courses target students with a physics background and all those who need additional engineering foundations.)