Application of parameter plane method to pilot-induced oscillations

The main purpose of this paper is to predict the phenomenon of pilot-induced oscillations (PIOs) by the use of parameter plane method. The position-limited and rate-limited are always existed in the practical pilot–vehicle systems. Based on the approximation of classical describing functions, the stability of linearized pilot–vehicle systems can be easily analyzed. In addition, the effects of varying controller or plant parameters on stability must be considered to achieve a robust design by parameter plane approach. In this work, a PID pilot–vehicle system with rate-limited is given for analyzing PIOs first. Although the control structure is simple, it still makes some complex situations. The effect of phase delay is also addressed. Finally, the stability analysis to a pilot–vehicle system with multiple nonlinearities is extended. Computer simulations demonstrate the estimation of PIOs by this method.