Peak Estimation of Rational Systems using Convex Optimization

This paper presents algorithms that upper-bound the peak value of a state function along trajectories of a continuous-time system with rational dynamics. The finite-dimensional but nonconvex peak estimation problem is cast as a convex infinite-dimensional linear program in occupation measures. This infinite-dimensional program is then truncated into finite-dimensions using the moment-Sum-of-Squares (SOS) hierarchy of semidefinite programs. Prior work on treating rational dynamics using the moment-SOS approach involves clearing dynamics to common denominators or adding lifting variables to handle reciprocal terms under new equality constraints. Our solution method uses a sum-of-rational method based on absolute continuity of measures. The Moment-SOS truncations of our program possess lower computational complexity and (empirically demonstrated) higher accuracy of upper bounds on example systems as compared to prior approaches.