Why are we still teaching Routh-Hurwitz criterion in Control

In summary, the conversation discusses the relevance of studying the Routh-Hurwitz criterion in the context of automatic control. It is argued that with the availability of computer software, the tedious hand calculations required for Routh-Hurwitz are unnecessary. Instead, Bode gain and phase plots and the Nyquist criterion are suggested as alternative methods for stability analysis. It is concluded that these methods are more efficient and effective than Routh-Hurwitz in most cases.
  • #1
Mohamed_Wael
23
0
I am a TA for Automatic control class, I can't find an answer for my students about why we are still studying Routh-Hurwitz criterion as almost anyone can use computer software to find the roots of the closed-loop system and determine stability instead of doing these tedious hand calculations
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
Learning Routh-Hurwitz never made much sense to begin with since it presupposes an explicit transfer function which in many cases is unavailable, with only empirical data to analyze.

Bode gain and phase plots almost always suffice, are easy to derive and plot, and allow expeditious system synthesis.

For the ultimate in stability analysis the Nyquist criterion is superior to all others as it handles all cases. Root-locus is also still fine but maybe harder to assimilate.

Bottom line: settle for Bode plots and Nyquist.
 

1. What is the Routh-Hurwitz criterion and why is it important in control?

The Routh-Hurwitz criterion is a mathematical method used to determine the stability of a control system. It is important because it allows engineers to analyze the stability of a system without having to solve complex differential equations. This makes it a powerful tool for designing and tuning control systems.

2. Is the Routh-Hurwitz criterion still relevant in modern control systems?

Yes, the Routh-Hurwitz criterion is still relevant in modern control systems. While there are other methods for analyzing stability, the Routh-Hurwitz criterion is still widely used due to its simplicity and accuracy. It is also a fundamental concept in control theory and understanding it is crucial for more advanced control techniques.

3. Are there any limitations to the Routh-Hurwitz criterion?

Yes, the Routh-Hurwitz criterion has some limitations. It can only be used for linear systems and it does not provide information about the transient response or performance of a control system. Additionally, it cannot be used for systems with time delays.

4. Can other methods be used instead of the Routh-Hurwitz criterion?

Yes, there are other methods for analyzing stability such as the Nyquist criterion and the Bode stability criterion. These methods may be more suitable for certain types of control systems or provide additional information about the system's performance.

5. Is it necessary to learn the Routh-Hurwitz criterion if software can do the analysis for us?

While software can perform the Routh-Hurwitz analysis for us, it is still important for control engineers to understand the underlying principles and concepts. This allows for better interpretation of results and the ability to troubleshoot and modify control systems as needed. Additionally, not all control systems may have access to software, making knowledge of the Routh-Hurwitz criterion essential for analysis and design.

Similar threads

  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Quantum Interpretations and Foundations
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • STEM Career Guidance
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
884
Replies
13
Views
2K
Replies
62
Views
6K
Back
Top