On the state estimation of structures with second order observers

The use of the linear quadratic regulator control synthesis techniques implies the availability of full state feedback. For vibration control of structures, usually only a limited number of states are measured from which an observer model reconstructs the full state. This paper shows that using second-order observers is a viable technique for reconstructing the unmeasured states of structures under mildly restrictive conditions. Moreover, the computational advantages of the second-order observer, as compared to a first-order observer, indicate that significantly larger observer models may be utilized. Numerical examples are used to demonstrate the performance of second-order observers. The implications of second-order observers in the development of the control/structures interaction technology is discussed.