Hybrid functions approach for optimal control of systems described by integro-differential equations

In this paper, a new numerical method for solving the optimal control of a class of systems described by integro-differential equations with quadratic performance index is presented. This optimization problem plays an important role in describing the dynamics of an elastic aircraft with allowance for non-steady flow past its profile. The method is based upon hybrid functions approximation. The properties of hybrid functions consisting of block-pulse functions and Bernoulli polynomials are presented. The operational matrices of integration and product are given. These matrices are then utilized to reduce the solution of optimization problem to a nonlinear programming one to which existing well-developed algorithms may be applied. Illustrative examples are included to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the technique. (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.