Finite-time converging jump observer for linear switched systems with unknown inputs

The observation problem for linear switched systems with unknown inputs is addressed and solved via sliding mode technique. The proposed observer provides a finite time converging estimate of the state vector despite the presence of unknown inputs. The design procedure, which requires the knowledge of the discrete state of the switched system, is based on the principles of disturbance decoupling and hierarchical observer output injection. In order to cope with the switching nature of the plant under observation, state jumps in the observer state space are enforced intentionally. The implementation of an additional observer allows the reconstruction of the unknown inputs, which may be important in the framework of fault detection. A numerical example illustrates the effectiveness of the suggested technique.