Output-feedback global continuous finite-time and exponential stabilization of bounded-input mechanical systems

This work proposes an output-feedback global continuous controller for the finite-time or (local) exponential stabilization of bounded-input mechanical systems. The control design is carried out within the analytical framework of local homogeneity. The proposed approach avoids velocity measurements on the feedback through the use of a dynamic dissipator expressed in a generalized non-linear form. The analytical results are supported through simulation tests. In particular, such implementations show the performance differences obtained through diverse particular dynamic dissipator structures, as well as the contrast among the finite-time and exponential convergence achievable through the proposed scheme.