Practical Optimal Control Without Computers

Optimal control of an actual plant is achieved without using computers or any instrumentation other than the basic minimum normally required for closed-loop control. Pontryagin's principle is found superior to dynamic programming in such applications. This principle is presented as a practical tool rather than a theoretical concept; and its use is extended to cover the infinite optimizing interval case. A practical example is described in which the optimizing controller is an inexpensive collection of commonly available electronic elements. The presentation is intended for the professional control engineer rather than the theoretical control scientist.