Observer-based adaptive neural tracking control for a class of nonlinear systems with prescribed performance and input dead-zone constraints

This paper investigates the problem of output feedback neural network (NN) learning tracking control for nonlinear strict feedback systems subject to prescribed performance and input dead-zone constraints. First, an NN is utilized to approximate the unknown nonlinear functions, then a state observer is developed to estimate the unmeasurable states. Second, based on the command filter method, an output feedback NN learning backstepping control algorithm is established. Third, a prescribed performance function is employed to ensure the transient performance of the closed-loop systems and forces the tracking error to fall within the prescribed performance boundary. It is rigorously proved mathematically that all the signals in the closed-loop systems are semi-globally uniformly ultimately bounded and the tracking error can converge to an arbitrarily small neighborhood of the origin. Finally, a numerical example and an application example of the electromechanical system are given to show effectiveness of the acquired control algorithm.