Neural Network-Based Output Feedback Fault Tolerant Tracking Control for Nonlinear Systems with Unknown Control Directions

In this study, an adaptive output feedback fault tolerant control (FTC) scheme is proposed for a class of multi-input and multioutput (MIMO) nonlinear systems with multiple constraints. The neural network (NN) is adopted to handle the unknown nonlinearity by means of its superior approximation capability. Based on it, the state observer is designed to estimate the unmeasured states, and the nonlinear disturbance observer is constructed to tackle the external disturbances. In addition, the Nussbaum function is utilized to cope with the actuator faults, which are coupled with the unknown control directions. Combining with the Lyapunov theory, a NN-based output feedback FTC law is developed for the MIMO nonlinear systems, and the boundedness of all closed-loop system error signals is proved. Simulation results on the unmanned helicopter are performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed controller.