Continuous and pulsed forms of control of a multistable system are compared directly, both theoretically and numerically, taking as an example the switching of a periodically driven class-B laser between its stable and unstable pulsing regimes. It is shown that continuous control is the more energy efficient. This result is illuminated by making use of the close correspondence that exists between the problems of energy-optimal control and the stability of a steady state.
First direct comparison between the efficiencies of continuous and pulsed forms of non-linear control of a multistable system. Khovaov led all aspects of the work, resulting in an investigation of non-linear control of a laser in collaboration with an experimental group (Minsk) and to invited talks at international conferences. RAE_import_type : Journal article RAE_uoa_type : Physics