Event

LM Robotics Seminar: Optimization-based Formal Synthesis of Control Strategies for Dynamical Systems

Friday, October 1, 2021
1:30 p.m.
Online seminar via Zoom

Optimization-based Formal Synthesis of Control Strategies for Dynamical Systems

Calin Belta

Professor (ME, SE, ECE)
Director of BU Robotics Lab
Boston University

Zoom link
https://umd.zoom.us/j/99769180447
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Webinar ID: 997 6918 0447
    

Abstract

In control theory, complicated dynamics such as systems of (nonlinear) differential equations are mostly controlled to achieve stability. This fundamental property is often linked with optimality, which requires minimization of a certain cost along the trajectories of a stable system. In formal synthesis, simple systems such as finite state transition graphs modeling computer programs or digital circuits are controlled from specifications such as safety, liveness, or richer requirements expressed as formulas of temporal logics. With the development and integration of cyber physical and safety critical systems, there is an increasing need for computational tools for controlling complex systems from rich, temporal logic specifications. In this talk, I will introduce some recents results on the connection between optimal control and formal synthesis. Specifically, I will focus on the following problem: given a dynamical control system with state and control constraints, a cost, and correctness temporal logic specifications, generate an optimal control strategy that satisfies the specifications and the constraints.

Biography

Calin Belta is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Systems Engineering at Boston University, where he holds the Tegan family Distinguished Faculty Fellowship. He is the Director of the BU Robotics Lab. His research focuses on dynamics and control theory, with particular emphasis on cyber-physical systems, formal methods, and applications to robotics and systems biology. Notable awards include the 2008 AFOSR Young Investigator Award, the 2005 National Science Foundation CAREER Award, and the 2017 IEEE TCNS Outstanding Paper Award. He is a Fellow of the IEEE and a Distinguished Lecturer of the IEEE CSS.

Host

Yancy Diaz-Mercado