Frequency-domain stability conditions for split-path nonlinear systems

This paper considers the class of control systems containing so-called split-path nonlinear (SPAN) filters, which are designed to overcome some of the well-known fundamental limitations in linear time-invariant (LTI) control. In this work, we are interested in developing tools for the stability analysis of such systems using frequency-domain techniques. Hereto, we explicitly show the equivalence between a set of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) with S-procedure terms, guaranteeing stability of the closed-loop (SPAN) system, and a frequency-domain condition. We also provide a systematic procedure for verifying the frequency-domain condition in a graphical manner. The results are illustrated through a nummerical case study.