Model reference adaptive control of large scale systems

Adaptive model reference procedures which do not require explicit parameter identification are considered for large scale systems. Such application is feasible provided that there exists a feed-back gain matrix such that the resulting input-output transfer function is strictly positive real. Consideration of a simply supported beam shows the positive real condition to be satisfied for velocity and velocity plus scaled positional outputs sensed at the same points where the actuators are positioned. Results show the adaptive algorithm to indeed be capable of satisfactory output model following performance with all beam states stabilized.