Buffer length selection for distributed control systems

In this paper we consider a state-feedback discrete control of the continuous linear process, where the actuator is connected to the controller via data transmission network. The main complication of this control architecture is the presence of variable time delays. The idea is to reduce temporal dependency of the individual parts of this model by introducing buffer at the actuator. As long as variable delay is shorter than buffer length the loop delay is constant and is equal to the buffer length. If this condition is not fulfilled for some steps, the system operates in open-loop. Introduction of a longer buffer eliminates open-loop operations but decreases control quality. Finding a balance between these two tendencies is the main research problem of this paper.