An advanced algorithm for partitioning and parameter estimation in local model networks and its application to vehicle vertical dynamics

摘要

In this paper, advanced concepts for the identification of complex nonlinear systems are discussed. Three major problems are addressed: The nonlinearity of the system, noise in the data upon which the model has to be built, and the potential to incorporate qualitative and quantitative prior knowledge about the system. As an integrated solution approach, local model networks (LMNs) with appropriate parameter estimation schemes are proposed. LMNs generally offer a versatile structure for the identification of nonlinear dynamic systems. In order to account for a realistic situation when noise is present both in input and output data, an equality constrained generalised total least squares algorithm for the local model parameter estimation of the LMN is presented; the incorporation of equality constraints allows to mathematically enforce desired system properties. As an application and benchmark problem, the vertical dynamics of a vehicle is considered. After training the LMN on a rough road, excellent predictions of the behaviour of the vehicle at crossing a single obstacle are obtained, thus proving the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. It is illustrated how both the application of a proper parameter estimation scheme and the integration of system constraints systematically improve the performance of the model.