Optimal Control and the Calculus of Variations - Hardcover

Pinch, Enid R.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0198532172 ISBN 13: 9780198532170

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1993

Synopsis

Optimal Control is a modern development of the calculus of variations and classical optimization theory. For this reason, this introduction to the theory of Optimal Control starts by considering the problem of minimizing a function of many variables. It moves from there, via an exposition of the calculus of variations, to the main subject which is the optimal control of systems governed by ordinary differential equations. This approach should enable the student to see the essential unity of the three important areas of mathematics, and also allow Optimal Control and the Pontryagin Maximum Principle to be placed in a proper context. A good knowledge of analysis, algebra, and methods, similar to that of a diligent British undergraduate at the start of the final year, is assumed. All the theorems are carefully proved, and there are many worked examples and exercises for the student. Although this book is written for the undergraduate mathematician, engineers and scientists with a taste for mathematics will find this a useful text.

About this title

Review

"The author has achieved his aim. Anyone who is curious to know what optimal control theory is all about, or who wishes to begin specializing in this field, would benefit by having this book close at hand. Technical libraries should acquire it, too. . . . highly recommended." --Applied Mechanics
Review
"The author has achieved his aim. Anyone who is curious to know what optimal control theory is all about, or who wishes to begin specializing in this field, would benefit by having this book close at hand. Technical libraries should acquire it, too. . . . highly recommended." --Applied Mechanics
Review
"The author has achieved his aim. Anyone who is curious to know what optimal control theory is all about, or who wishes to begin specializing in this field, would benefit by having this book close at hand. Technical libraries should acquire it, too. . . . highly recommended." --Applied Mechanics Review
"The author has achieved his aim. Anyone who is curious to know what optimal control theory is all about, or who wishes to begin specializing in this field, would benefit by having this book close at hand. Technical libraries should acquire it, too. . . . highly recommended." --Applied Mechanics Review

From the Back Cover

This book provides the core material for undergraduate courses on optimal control, the modern development that has grown out of the calculus of variations and classical optimization theory.

Edition details

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 1993
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0198532172
• ISBN 13: 9780198532170
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 242