Control is about achieving desired dynamic behaviour by using models and measured data to make operational decisions.
Signal processing is about the extraction of useful information from available observations.
Together, control and signal processing techniques enable high-level function in engineered systems. For example, the ability of a drone to fly autonomously, or an electricity grid to deliver power at desired voltage and frequency, given uncertainty about the operating environment. Control and signal processing techniques are also applied to understand and manage natural systems, such as water catchments and networks of neurons.
Research activity
Research activities of the group range in focus from theory to applications.
The group has a strong research record in the mathematical foundations of control, signal processing, and optimisation for systems engineering.
Our record of research excellence includes a number of prize-winning papers in leading journals of the IEEE and SIAM, and other national and international awards for work with industry partners.
The group maintains strong links with researchers internationally and regularly hosts academic and student visitors from around the world.
Specific areas of expertise include:
- Control of and over networks
- Estimation and filtering
- Geometry in signal processing
- Image processing
- Mathematical systems theory
- Modelling and system identification
- Optimisation and optimal control
- Robustness analysis
- Sensor systems
The group has successfully engaged with industry in areas such as large-scale water distribution (Rubicon Water), engine management (Toyota Motor Company, Japan), building services, transportation, defence (BAE Systems, DST Group), medical imaging, and rehabilitation robotics. Outcomes of work with Rubicon Water on irrigation channel automation are now operational in a number of large-scale networks in Australia, China and USA. Similarly, our collaboration with BAE Systems on optimal co-design of controllers and structures led to tools that are being utilised in the development of next generation aerodynamic systems.
Research seminars
The group runs seminar series for both external and internal speakers to present their research. If you would like give a control and signal processing seminar, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Research training
The research activities of the group underpin the training of PhD students and post-doctoral researchers. PhD students are supported in their development through coursework classes under the supervision of academic staff, and visiting professors. Classes offered regularly include the following:
- Linear systems theory
- Nonlinear systems theory
- Introduction to optimisation
- Statistical signal processing
- Information theory
- Digital image processing
- Secure cyber-physical systems
Find out more about Graduate Research study.