Optimization of a joint sensor placement and robust estimation scheme for distributed parameter processes subject to worst case spatial disturbance distributions

We consider the development of a systematic optimization process that can be used to locate sensors in distributed parameter systems. We focus on two components in this process: developing a performance metric, and invoking optimization algorithms to find the best location of sensors according to this metric. In choosing a metric, we incorporate the notion of a worst-case, spatially distributed disturbance. The included numerical study uses a variety of second-order parabolic problems.