Optimal H∞ state feedback for systems with symmetric and Hurwitz state matrix

We address H• state feedback and give a simple form for an optimal control law applicable to linear time invariant systems with symmetric and Hurwitz state matrix. More specifically, the control law as well as the minimal value of the norm can be expressed in the matrices of the system’s state space representation, given separate cost on state and control input. Thus, the control law is transparent, easy to synthesize and scalable. If the plant possesses a compatible sparsity pattern, it is also distributed. Examples of such sparsity patterns are included. Furthermore, if the state matrix is diagonal and the control input matrix is a node-link incidence matrix, the open-loop system’s property of internal positivity is preserved by the control law. Finally, we give an extension of the optimal control law that incorporate coordination among subsystems. Examples demonstrate the simplicity in synthesis and performance of the optimal control law.