Network-based predictive control for constrained nonlinear systems with two-channel packet dropouts

This paper investigates the predictive control scheme and the associated stability issue for the constrained nonlinear networked control systems (NCSs), where both the sensor-to-controller packet dropout and the controller-to- actuator packet dropout are considered simultaneously. The model predictive control based framework is proposed to compensate for the two-channel packet dropouts. This framework consists of two main aspects: 1) to design the control packets by solving a constrained optimization problem and 2) to synthesize an efficient packet transmission and compensation mechanism based on the Transmission Control Protocol. To study the stability of the resultant nonlinear NCS, we propose a novel Lyapunov function, based on which the conditions for ensuring the regional input-to-state practical stability are developed. Finally, the proposed control strategy is applied to a spring-and-cart system to demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness.