Minimum Dwell Times for the Stability of Switched Systems with Multiple Stable Operating Points

This work outlines a practical process, based on dwell times, for ensuring the stability of non-linear switched systems with a different stable equilibrium for each mode. Relevant Lyapunov theorems are discussed, followed by a derivation of an algorithm that determines dwell times for each system mode for guaranteeing stability. An analysis of algorithm parameters and potentially troublesome systems is then included. Finally, two examples are drawn from power electronics and electric machinery and processed by the proposed method. Application of this approach will both grant confidence in switched system stability and warn of possible unstable system behavior when appropriate.