Benha University Electrical Engineering Department

College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Chapter 9 STABILITY ANALYSIS

After completing this chapter, the students will be able to:
• Recognize the concept of stability based on time response,
• Interpret the Routh table to check the system stability,
• Interpret the Routh table when the first element of a row is zero or when entire
row is zero,
• Determine the range of gain K to guarantee stability.

1. Introduction
The most important problem in linear control systems concerns stability. That is,
under what conditions will a system become unstable? If it is unstable, how should
we stabilize the system?
Stability may be defined as the ability of a system to restore its equilibrium position
when disturbed or a system which has a bounded response for a bounded output.
Referring to Fig. 1:

1 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

(a) if the ball is displaced a small distance from this position and released, it
oscillates but ultimately returns to its rest position at the base as it loses energy
as a result of friction. This is therefore a stable equilibrium point.
(b) The stable position can be represented by a cone rest on its base.
(c) The time response of stable system converges to a certain value as the time
tends to infinity.

(a) Rolling ball (b) Cone (c) time response

Fig. 1, Stable system
On the other hand and referring to Fig. 2:
(a) If the ball is in equilibrium as placed exactly at the top of the surface, but if it is
displaced an extremely small distance to either side, the net gravitational force
acting on it will cause it to roll down the surface and never return to the
equilibrium point. This equilibrium is therefore unstable.
(b) The unstable position can be represented by a cone rest on its tip.
(c) The time response of unstable system diverges as the time tends to infinity.

(a) Rolling ball (b) Cone (c) time response

Fig. 2, Unstable system

2 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Referring to Fig. 3:
(a) The ball neither moves away nor returns to its equilibrium position. The flat
portion represents a neutrally stable region.
(b) The neutrally stable position can be represented by a cone rest on its side.
(c) The time response of neutrally stable system is constant as the time changes.

(a) Rolling ball (b) Cone (c) time response

Fig. 3, neutrally stable system

2. Stability Analysis in the Complex Plane

The stability of a linear closed‐loop system can be determined from the location of
the closed‐loop poles in the s‐plane. If any of these poles lie in the Right‐Half of the
s‐plane (RHS), (either the poles are real or complex as shown in Fig. 4.) then with
increasing time, they give rise to the dominant mode, and the transient response
increases monotonically or oscillate with increasing amplitude. Either of these
systems represents an unstable system.

Fig. 4. Poles located in RHS gives unstable response

3 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

For such a system, as soon as the power is turned on, the output may increase with
time. If no saturation takes place in the system and no mechanical stop is provided,
then the system may eventually be damaged and fail, since the response of a real
physical system cannot increase indefinitely.

Consider a simple feedback system shown in Fig. 5.

Fig. 5, closed-loop control system

The overall T.F. is given as:
𝐶(𝑠) 𝐺(𝑠)
=
𝑅(𝑠) 1 + 𝐺 (𝑠)𝐻(𝑠)
The characteristic equation is of the above system is 1 + 𝐺 (𝑠)𝐻(𝑠) = 0

The roots of the characteristic equation are called closed loop poles. The location of
such roots or poles on the s-plane will indicate the condition of stability as shown in
Fig. 6.

Fig. 6. Stability condition based on the location of the closed loop poles

4 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

3. Routh Stability criterion (Two Necessary but Insufficient Conditions)

The characteristic equation of the simple feedback system can be written as a
polynomial:
𝑎0 𝑆 𝑛 + 𝑎1 𝑆 𝑛−1 + ⋯ + 𝑎𝑛−1 𝑆1 + 𝑎𝑛 𝑆 0 = 0
There are two necessary but insufficient conditions for the roots of the characteristic
equation to lie in Left Hand Side (LHS) of the S-plane (i.e., stable region)

5 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

1. All the coefficients an, an-1, an-2, ..., a1 and a0 should have the same sign.
2. None of the coefficients vanish (All coefficients of the polynomial should exist).
By this way we judge the absolute stability of the system (stable or unstable).
Example #1
Given the characteristic equation,
𝑆 6 + 4𝑆 5 + 3𝑆 4 − 2𝑆 3 + 𝑆 2 + 4𝑆 + 4 = 0
Is the system described by this characteristic equation stable?
One coefficient (‐2) is negative. Therefore, the system does not satisfy the necessary
condition for stability. Therefore, this system is unstable.
Example #2
Given the characteristic equation,
𝑆 6 + 4𝑆 5 + 3𝑆 4 + 𝑆 2 + 4𝑆 + 4 = 0
Is the system described by this characteristic equation stable? The term s3 is missing.
Therefore, the system does not satisfy the necessary condition for stability.
Therefore, this system is unstable.

4. Hurwitz Stability Criterion (Necessary and Sufficient Condition)

In this section, we will check the system stability without the need to solve for the
closed-loop system poles. Using this method, we can tell how many closed-loop
poles are in LHS, in RHS, and on the jω-axis. (Notice that we say how many, not
where). We can find the number of poles in each section of the s-plane, but we don’t
need to find their coordinates. In this method, we must arrange the coefficients of the
polynomial in rows and columns according to the following pattern:
Since we are interested in the system poles, we focus on the system characteristic
equation (denominator of the closed-loop T.F.) which is assumed as:
𝐴0 𝑆 𝑛 + 𝐴1 𝑆 𝑛−1 + ⋯ + 𝐴𝑛−1 𝑆1 + 𝐴𝑛 𝑆 0 = 0
• Create the Hurwitz table shown in Table 1, by labelling the rows with powers of s
from the highest power of the denominator (Sn) until the lowest power (S0).

6 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

• Write the coefficient of Sn which is (A0) and list horizontally in the first row every
other even/odd coefficient (depending on n is even or odd, respectively).
• In the second row, list horizontally, starting with the next highest power of s which
is (A1), every coefficient that was skipped in the first row.
• The remaining entries are filled in as follows:

Table 1, Hurwitz array

Sn A0 A2 A4 A6
Sn-1 A1 A3 A5 A7
𝐴1 × 𝐴2 − 𝐴0 × 𝐴3 𝐴1 × 𝐴4 − 𝐴0 × 𝐴5 𝐴1 × 𝐴6 − 𝐴0 × 𝐴7
Sn-2 𝐵1 = 𝐵2 = 𝐵3 = 0
𝐴1 𝐴1 𝐴1

𝐵1 × 𝐴3 − 𝐴1 × 𝐵2 𝐵1 × 𝐴5 − 𝐴1 × 𝐵3 𝐵1 × 𝐴7 − 𝐴1 × 0
Sn-3 𝐶1 = 𝐶2 = 𝐶3 =
𝐵1 𝐵1 𝐵1

⋮ ⋮ ⋮ ⋮
S0 ⋮
Note that in developing the array an entire row may be divided or multiplied by a
positive number in order to simplify the subsequent numerical calculation without
altering the stability conclusion.
Routh-Hurwitz stability criterion states that the number of roots of the characteristic
equation with positive real parts is equal to the number of changes in sign of the
coefficients of the first column of the array.
It should be noted that the exact values of the terms in the first column need not be
known; instead, only the signs are needed.

The necessary and sufficient condition that all roots of the characteristic equation lie
in the left-half s plane is that:
a) All the coefficients of the characteristic equation be positive, and
b) All terms in the first column of the array have positive signs.

7 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Example #3
Discuss the stability of the following control system

We need to calculate the closed-loop T.F:

The system characteristic equation is:

𝑆 3 + 10𝑆 2 + 31𝑆 + 1030 = 0
The Hurwitz array is
(+) S3 1 31
(+) S2 10 1030

10 × 31 − 1 × 1030
(-) S1 = −72 0
10

(+) S0 1030

There are 2 sign changes. There are 2 poles on the RHS of the S-plane. Therefore, the
system is unstable.

Example #4
Discuss the stability of the following characteristic equation:
𝑆 4 + 2𝑆 3 + 3𝑆 2 + 4𝑆 + 5 = 0
Let us follow the procedure just presented and construct the array of coefficients. The
first two rows can be obtained directly from the given polynomial. The remaining
terms are obtained from these two rows. If any coefficients are missing, they may be
replaced by zeros in the array.

8 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

There are 2 sign changes. There are 2 poles on the right half of the S-plane.
Therefore, the system is unstable.
Example #5
Check whether this system is stable or not.
𝐶(𝑠) 2(𝑆 2 + 2𝑆 + 25)
=
𝑅(𝑠) 𝑆 5 + 𝑆 4 + 3𝑆 3 + 9𝑆 2 + 16𝑆 + 10
The characteristic equation is:
𝑆 5 + 𝑆 4 + 3𝑆 3 + 9𝑆 2 + 16𝑆 + 10 = 0
Construct Hurwitz array as follows:
S5 1 3 16

S4 1 9 10

S3 –6 6

S2 10 10

S1 12

S0 10

There are 2 sign changes. There are 2 poles on the right half of the S-plane.
Therefore, the system is unstable.

Example #6
Check the stability of the control system whose characteristic equation is:
3𝑆 7 + 9𝑆 6 + 6𝑆 5 + 4𝑆 4 + 7𝑆 3 + 8𝑆 2 + 2𝑆 + 6 = 0
Construct Hurwitz array as follows:

9 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

S7 3 6 7 2

S6 9 4 8 6

S5 4.6667 4.3333 0

S4 -4.357 8 6

S3 12.90165 6.4265

S2 10.1703 6

S1 -1.1849

S0 6
There are 4 sign changes. There are 4 poles on the right half of the S-plane.
Therefore, the system is unstable.
From Matlab, we can obtain the roots of this characteristic equation. It is clear that
there are 3 roots lie in the LHS of S-plane and there are 4 roots lie in the RHS of S-
plane.

5. Special Cases for Hurwitz Array:

1- If a first-column term in any row is zero, but the remaining terms are not zero
or there is no remaining term, then the zero term is replaced by a very small
positive number ε and the rest of the array is evaluated.

10 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Example #7
Determine the stability of the closed-loop system given below.
𝐶(𝑠) 10
= 5
𝑅(𝑠) 𝑆 + 2𝑆 4 + 3𝑆 3 + 6𝑆 2 + 5𝑆 + 3
The system characteristic equation is:
𝑆 5 + 2𝑆 4 + 3𝑆 3 + 6𝑆 2 + 5𝑆 + 3 = 0
The Hurwitz array is: (note that, we replace the “0” of S3 row by ε)

In each case (either ε is +ve or -ve) the system is unstable with two poles located at
the RHS of S-plane.
Another Solution:
The original characteristic equation is:
𝑆 5 + 2𝑆 4 + 3𝑆 3 + 6𝑆 2 + 5𝑆 + 3 = 0
Form a polynomial that has the reciprocal order of the characteristic equation:
3𝑆 5 + 5𝑆 4 + 6𝑆 3 + 3𝑆 2 + 2𝑆 + 1 = 0
Construct Hurwitz array as follows:
S5 3 6 2

S4 5 3 1

S3 4.2 1.4

S2 1.3333 1

S1 -1.75

S0 1

11 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

the system is unstable with two poles located at the RHS of S-plane as result obtain in
case of ε used.
We can check the answer by factorizing the characteristic eqn. by Matlab:

Example #8
Consider the following characteristic equation:
S4 + 15S3 + 75S2 + 375S + 1250 = 0
S4 1 75 1250
S3 15 375
S2 50 1250
S1  0
S0 1250
If the sign of the coefficient above the zero ε is the same as that below ε, it indicates
that there is a pair of imaginary roots. Therefore, the system is marginally stable as
there are no sign changes. To get the poles located at the j axis: go directly to the
raw over the 0 cell and form the equation: 50 S2 + 1250 = 0 → S = ± J 5
This can be obtained by finding the roots by Matlab

12 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

2- If all the coefficients in any derived row are zero, it indicates that there are roots
of equal magnitude lying radially opposite in the s plane, that is, two real roots
with equal magnitudes and opposite signs and/or two conjugate imaginary roots.

In such a case, the evaluation of the rest of the array can be continued by forming an
auxiliary polynomial with the coefficients of the last row and by using the
coefficients of the derivative of this auxiliary polynomial in the next row. Such roots
with equal magnitudes and lying radially opposite in the s plane can be found by
solving the auxiliary polynomial, which is always even.
Example #9:
Determine the stability of the closed-loop system given below, and find the location
of the closed-loop poles.
𝐶(𝑠) 10
= 5
𝑅(𝑠) 𝑆 + 7𝑆 4 + 6𝑆 3 + 42𝑆 2 + 8𝑆 + 56
The system characteristic equation is:
𝑆 5 + 7𝑆 4 + 6𝑆 3 + 42𝑆 2 + 8𝑆 + 56 = 0
Construct Hurwitz array:

Since all row coefficients are zeros, to solve this problem: First we return to the row
immediately above the row of zeros and form an auxiliary equation A(s), using the
entries in that row as coefficients. The polynomial will start with the power of s in the
label column and continue by skipping every other power of s. Thus, the polynomial
formed for this example is
𝐴(𝑠) = 𝑆 4 + 6𝑆 2 + 8
Next, we differentiate the equation with respect to s and obtain

13 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

𝑑𝐴(𝑠)
= 4𝑆 3 + 12𝑆
𝑑𝑆
Finally, we use the coefficients of that derivative to replace the row of zeros.

From the first column sign, all entries in the first column are positive. Hence, there
are no right–half-plane poles.
An entire row of zeros will appear in the Routh table when a purely even polynomial
is a factor of the original polynomial. As we see the auxiliary equation A(s) is an
even polynomial; it has only even powers of s. Even polynomials only have roots that
are symmetrical about the origin. This symmetry can occur under three conditions of
root position: (1) The roots are symmetrical and real, (2) the roots are symmetrical
and imaginary, or (3) the roots are quadrantal. See Figure below.

Solve for the roots of the Auxiliary eqn.:

𝐴(𝑠) = 𝑆 4 + 6𝑆 2 + 8 = 0
Assuming that S2 by x,
14 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511
 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

𝐴(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 8 = 0
𝑥 = −2 → 𝑆1,2 = ±𝐽√2
𝑥 = −4 → 𝑆3,4 = ±𝐽2
This means there 4 poles on jω axis, and 1 pole in the LHS of s-plane. Therefore, the
system is Marginally (Critically) stable system.

Example #10
Determine the stability of the closed-loop system given below, and find the location
of the closed-loop poles.
𝐶(𝑠) 20
= 8
𝑅(𝑠) 𝑆 + 𝑆 7 + 12𝑆 6 + 22𝑆 5 + 39𝑆 4 + 59𝑆 3 + 48𝑆 2 + 38𝑆 + 20
The system characteristic equation is:
𝑆 8 + 𝑆 7 + 12𝑆 6 + 22𝑆 5 + 39𝑆 4 + 59𝑆 3 + 48𝑆 2 + 38𝑆 + 20 = 0
Construct Hurwitz array:

we return to the row immediately above the row of zeros and form an auxiliary
equation A(s),
𝐴(𝑠) = 𝑆 4 + 3𝑆 2 + 2
The derivative will be
𝑑𝐴(𝑠)
= 4𝑆 3 + 6𝑆
𝑑𝑆
Replace the zeros by the coefficient of above equation

15 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Solve for the roots of the Auxiliary eqn.:

𝐴(𝑠) = 𝑆 4 + 3𝑆 2 + 2 = 0
Assuming that S2 by x,
𝐴(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 + 2 = 0
𝑥 = −2 → 𝑆1,2 = ±𝐽√2
𝑥 = −1 → 𝑆3,4 = ±𝐽1
Thus, the system has two poles in the right half-plane, two poles in the left half-
plane, and four poles on the j-axis; therefore, the system is unstable because of
the right–half-plane poles. This is clear also from Matlab roots of that
characteristic equation:

16 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Example #11:
Find the number of poles in the left half-plane, the right half-plane, and on the jω-
axis for the system of figure below. Draw conclusions about the stability of the
closed-loop system.

The closed-loop T.F. is given by:

𝐶(𝑠) 128
= 8
𝑅(𝑠) 𝑆 + 3𝑆 7 + 10𝑆 6 + 24𝑆 5 + 48𝑆 4 + 96𝑆 3 + 128𝑆 2 + 192𝑆 + 128
The system characteristic equation is:
𝑆 8 + 3𝑆 7 + 10𝑆 6 + 24𝑆 5 + 48𝑆 4 + 96𝑆 3 + 128𝑆 2 + 192𝑆 + 128

Using Routh-Hurwitz array,

Since there is a row with all coefficients are zeros;

we return to the row immediately above the row of zeros and form an auxiliary
equation A(s),
𝐴(𝑠) = 𝑆 6 + 8𝑆 4 + 32𝑆 2 + 64
The derivative will be:
𝑑𝐴(𝑠)
= 6𝑆 5 + 32𝑆 3 + 64𝑆
𝑑𝑆
Replace the zeros by the coefficient of above equation

17 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Since there are two sign change, there two poles located at right-half plane.
Solve for the roots of the Auxiliary eqn.:
𝐴(𝑠) = 𝑆 6 + 8𝑆 4 + 32𝑆 2 + 64 = 0
Assuming that S2 by x,
𝐴(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 3 + 8𝑥 2 + 32𝑥 + 64 = 0
𝑥 = −4 → 𝑆1,2 = ±𝐽2 → two pure imaginary poles
𝑥 = −2 + 𝐽3.4641 → 𝑆3,4 = ±(−1 + 𝐽1.73205) → two poles located in LHS
𝑥 = −2 − 𝐽3.4641 → 𝑆3,4 = ±(−1 − 𝐽1.73205) → two poles located in LHS

Example #12:
Consider the following characteristic equation:
S5 + 2 S4 + 24 S3 + 48 S2 – 25 S - 50 = 0
Discuss the system stability and find the location of closed-loop poles.
Construct the Routh-Hurwitz array as:

18 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

The terms in the s3 row are all zero. (Note that such a case occurs only in an odd
numbered row.) The auxiliary polynomial is then formed from the coefficients of
the s4 row. The auxiliary polynomial A(s) is
𝐴(𝑠) = 2𝑆 4 + 48𝑆 2 − 50
The derivative will be:
𝑑𝐴(𝑠)
= 8𝑆 3 + 96𝑆
𝑑𝑆
Replace the zeros by the coefficient of above equation

We see that there is one change in sign in the first column of the new array. Thus,
the characteristic equation has one pole with a positive real part. By solving for
roots of the auxiliary equation,
2𝑆 4 + 48𝑆 2 − 50 = 0
Assuming that S2 by x,
𝐴(𝑥 ) = 𝑥 2 + 24𝑥 − 25 = 0
𝑥 = 1 → 𝑆1,2 = ±1 → one pole in RHS & one pole in LHS
𝑥 = −25 → 𝑆3,4 = ±𝐽5 → two pure imaginary poles

19 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

6. Stability Design using Routh-Hurwitz Criterion

The Routh-Hurwitz criterion gives a strong proof that changes in the gain of a
feedback control system result in differences in transient response because of
changes in closed-loop pole locations.
It is possible to determine the effects of changing one or two parameters of a system
by examining the values that cause instability. In the following, we shall consider the
problem of determining the stability range of a parameter value.
Example #13:
Find the range of gain, K, for the system shown below that will cause the system
to be stable, then find the frequency of sustained oscillation..

𝐶(𝑠) 𝐾
= 3
𝑅(𝑠) 𝑆 + 18𝑆 2 + 77𝑆 + 𝐾
The system characteristic equation is:
𝑆 3 + 18𝑆 2 + 77𝑆 + 𝐾 = 0
Using Routh-Hurwitz array,

From the above array

From S0 raw K>0 (1)
From S2 raw 1386 – K > 0 → K < 1386 (2)
Then the range of gain K for stability is

20 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

1386 > K > 0

At K=1386 exactly, the system becomes oscillatory (critically stable) and the
oscillation is sustained at constant amplitude. To get this frequency we form the
auxiliary equation A(S) from the coefficients of the row above that contain K=1386
A(S) = (18) S2 + (1386) = 0
Solving this equation to get the frequency.
𝑆 = ±𝐽8.775 𝑟𝑎𝑑/𝑠
Example #14
Consider the system described by a closed-loop transfer function given below, and
we need to determine the range of K for stability.

The characteristic equation is

For stability, K must be positive, and all coefficients in the first column must be
positive. Therefore,

14
At 𝐾 = the system becomes oscillatory (critically stable) and the oscillation is
9
sustained at constant amplitude. To get this frequency we form the auxiliary
14
equation A(S) from the coefficients of the row above that contain 𝐾 =
9
2
A(S) = (7/3) S + (14/9) = 0
Solving this equation to get the frequency.
𝑆 = ±𝐽0.8165 𝑟𝑎𝑑/𝑠

21 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Example #15
In the figure below, determine the range of K for the system to be stable

The characteristic equation is:

𝑆 3 + 3𝑆 2 + 2𝑆 + 𝐾 = 0
Construct Routh array
S3 1 2
S2 3 K
6−𝐾
S1 0
3
S0 K
For the system stability;
From the S0 row K > 0,
From S1 row, 6 − K > 0 → K < 6
Then for stability, 6 > K > 0
at K = 6, the above characteristic equation becomes
𝑆 3 + 3𝑆 2 + 2𝑆 + 6 = 0

The frequency of oscillations in the previous case is √2 rad/s.

Or at K=6, the auxiliary equation is:
3S2 + 6 = 0 → S2 = − 2 → S = ±j√2

22 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Example #16:
The open-loop transfer function of a control system may be approximated by
𝐾(𝑆 + 10)
𝐺𝐻 (𝑆) =
𝑆(𝑆 + 3)(𝑆 2 + 4𝑆 + 8)
- Determine the range of gain K for the stability of the system,
- Calculate the maximum value of K for stability and the frequency of oscillation.
The system characteristic equation is
S(S+3)(S2+4S+8) + K(S+10) = 0
S4 + 7 S3 + 20 S2 + (24+K) S + 10 K = 0
Using Routh array

S4 1 20 10K

S3 7 24+K

S2 116 – K 70 K
1 −(𝐾 2 + 398𝐾 − 2784)
S
116 − 𝐾
S0 70 K
From the above array
From S0 raw 70K > 0 → K>0 (1)
From S2 raw 116 – K > 0 → K < 116 (2)
From S1 raw −(𝐾 2 + 398𝐾 − 2784) > 0 → 𝐾 2 + 398𝐾 − 2784 < 0
(𝐾 − 6.8762)(𝐾 + 404.876) < 0
In that case we have 2 scenarios:
First Scenario Second Scenario
(𝐾 − 6.8762) > 0 → 𝐾 > 6.8762 (𝐾 − 6.8762) < 0 → 𝐾 < 6.8762 (3)
(𝐾 + 404.876) < 0 → 𝐾 < −404.876 (𝐾 + 404.876) > 0 → 𝐾 > −404.876 (4)
Due to condition 1 & 2, we accept the Second Scenario
From conditions (1) & (4): K > 0
From conditions (2) & (3): K< 6.8762
The range of K for stability is
0 < K < 6.8762
23 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511
 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

The maximum value of K for stability is at K = 6.8762

This value is obtained from the row S1 so the auxiliary equation A(S) can be obtained from S2
A(S) = (116 – K) S2 + 70K = 0
109.1238 S2 + 481.334 = 0
S = ± j 2.1
The frequency of continuous oscillation is 2.1 rad/sec.
Example #17:
A simplified form of open-loop, unity-feedback transfer function of an airplane with
an autopilot in the longitudinal mode is
𝐾(𝑆 + 1)
𝐺 (𝑆 )𝐻 (𝑆 ) =
𝑆(𝑆 − 1)(𝑆 2 + 4𝑆 + 16)
Such system involving an open-loop pole in the right-half S plane may be
conditionally stable.

a) Using Routh-Hurwitiz criteria, find the range of K for stability.

b) Calculate the corresponding frequency of sustained oscillation.
c) Determine the system type.
d) For the value (values) of K obtained in (a), and for unit ramp input, calculate the
system steady-state error.
Since the system is unity feedback.
Then the system characteristic equation can be obtained by adding the numerator and
denominator of G(S)H(S)
𝑆 4 + 3𝑆 3 + 12𝑆 2 + (𝐾 − 16)𝑆 + 𝐾 = 0
Using Routh-Hurwitz array

S4 1 12 K

S3 3 K–16
52 − 𝐾
S2 K
3
−𝐾 2 + 59𝐾 − 832
S1
52 − 𝐾
S0 K
From the above array:

24 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

From S0 raw K>0 (1)

From S2 raw 52–K>0 → K < 52 (2)
From S2 raw −𝐾 2 + 59𝐾 − 832 > 0 → 𝐾 2 − 59𝐾 + 832 < 0
The values of K that make the s1 term in the first column equal zero are
K = 35.685 and K = 23.315.
(𝐾 − 35.685)(𝐾 − 23.315) < 0
In that case we have 2 scenarios:
First Scenario Second Scenario
(𝐾 − 35.685) > 0 → 𝐾 > 35.685 (𝐾 − 35.685) < 0 → 𝐾 < 35.685 (3)
(𝐾 − 23.315) < 0 → 𝐾 < 23.315 (𝐾 − 23.315) > 0 → 𝐾 > 23.315 (4)
Due to condition 1 & 2, we accept the Second Scenario
From conditions (1) & (4): K > 23.315
From conditions (2) & (3): K< 35.685
Then the range of K is
23.315 < K < 35.685
The crossing points on the imaginary axis can be found by solving the auxiliary
equation obtained from the s2 row, that is, by solving the following equation for s:

The results are

𝑆 = ±𝐽2.56 𝑎𝑡 𝐾 = 35.685
𝑆 = ±𝐽1.56 𝑎𝑡 𝐾 = 23.315
The system type is 1
For unit ramp input, we calculate the velocity error coefficient Kv
Kv = lim (S→0) SG(S)H(S)
𝐾 35.7 23.3
𝐾𝑣 = = − 𝑂𝑟 −
−1 × 16 16 16
Ess = 1/Kv

25 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

16
𝐸𝑠𝑠 = − = −0.44818
35.7
16
𝐸𝑠𝑠 = − = −6867
23.3
Example #18:
It is found that, the unity feedback control system shown in Fig. 3, is stable for the
range 0 ≤ 𝐾 ≤ 2.0
a) Determine the value of P to fulfill this condition
b) Calculate the frequency of sustained oscillation.

R(S) + 𝐾 C(S)
_ 𝑆(𝑆 + 1)(𝑆 + 𝑃)

The system characteristic equation is given by:

S3 + (P+1) S2 + P S + K = 0
Using Routh,
S3 1 P
2
S P+1 K
𝑃2 +𝑃−𝐾
S
𝑃+1
S0 K
a) For stability
K>0
P2 + P - K > 0 → K < P 2 + P
Then 0 < K < P2 + P
But the stability condition is given as 0<K<2
By comparing we get
P2 + P = 2 → P2 + P - 2 = 0
(P+2)(P-1) = 0
P=1 OR P = -2
But in the 2nd row of routh array, there is a stability condition P+1 must be +ve
So if P = -2, this mean the value of P+1 = -1 which is negative
Therefore P = -2 is rejected
P=1 ###
b) The auxiliary equation A(S) = 2S2 + 2 = 0
S =  J 1 rad/s which is the frequency of sustained oscillation ###

26 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Example #19:
Find the value of K in the system given in figure below that will place the closed-
loop poles as shown and find the value of each pole.

𝐶(𝑠) 𝐾 2 𝑆 2 (𝑆 + 1)
=
𝑅(𝑠) 𝐾𝑆 2 (𝑆 + 1) + 𝐾 2 + 2𝐾𝑆
𝐶(𝑠) 𝐾𝑆 2 (𝑆 + 1)
=
𝑅(𝑠) 𝑆 2 (𝑆 + 1) + 𝐾 + 2𝑆
Therefore, the system characteristic equation is:
27 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511
 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

S3 + S2 + 2S + K = 0
Using Routh array;
S3 1 2
2
S 1 K
S 2-K
0
S 2

For the system to be marginally stable K=2

we return to the characteristic equation at K=2 and solve it,
S3 + S2 + 2S + 2 = 0
Solving this equation gives the three roots at:
S1 = +j 1.4142
S2 = -j 1.4142
S3 = -2

Example #20:
The open-loop transfer function of a control system may be approximated by
𝐾(𝑆 + 3)
𝐺𝐻 (𝑆) =
𝑆(𝑆 + 5)(𝑆 + 6)(𝑆 2 + 2𝑆 + 2)
- Determine the range of gain K for the stability of the system,
- Calculate the maximum value of K for stability and the frequency of oscillation.
The system characteristic equation is:
S5 + 13 S4 + 54 S3 + 82 S2 + (60+K) S + 3 K = 0
Using Routh array

S5 1 54 60+K

S4 13 82 3K
620 780 + 10𝐾
S3
13 13
3130.7692 – 10K
S2 3K
47.69231
2
−(100𝐾 + 65200𝐾 − 2441999.976)
S1
3130.7692 – 10K
S0 3K
From the above array
From S0 raw 3K > 0 → K>0 (1)

28 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

From S2 raw 3130.7692 – 10K > 0 → K < 313.07692 (2)

From S1 raw −(𝐾 2 + 652𝐾 − 24420) > 0 → 𝐾 2 + 652𝐾 − 24420 < 0
(𝐾 − 35.519)(𝐾 + 687.519) < 0
In that case we have 2 scenarios:
First Scenario Second Scenario
(𝐾 − 35.519) > 0 → 𝐾 > 35.519 (𝐾 − 35.519) < 0 → 𝐾 < 35.519 (3)
(𝐾 + 687.519) < 0 → 𝐾 < −687.519 (𝐾 + 687.519) > 0 → 𝐾 > −687.519 (4)
Due to condition 1 & 2, we accept the Second Scenario
From conditions (1) & (4): K > 0
From conditions (2) & (3): K< 35.519
The range of K for stability is
0 < K < 35.519
The maximum value of K for stability is at K = 35.519
This value is obtained from the row S1 so the auxiliary equation A(S) can be obtained from S2
3130.7692 – 10K 2
𝐴(𝑠) = 𝑆 + 3𝐾 = 0
47.69231
𝐴(𝑠) = 58.19763𝑆 2 + 106.557 = 0
𝑆 = ±𝑗 1.353
Example #21:
The open-loop transfer function of a unity-feedback control system may be
approximated as:
𝐾(𝑆 2 + 2𝑆 + 4)
( ) ( )
𝐺 𝑠 𝐻 𝑠 = 5
𝑆 + 11.4𝑆 4 + 39𝑆 3 + 43.6𝑆 2 + 24𝑆
(a) Using Routh-Hurwitz, determine the range of gain K for stability,
(b) At the maximum values of the range obtained in (a), the system oscillates
continuously, calculate the frequency of this oscillation,

The system characteristic equation is:

𝑆 5 + 11.4𝑆 4 + 39𝑆 3 + 43.6𝑆 2 + 24𝑆 + 𝐾 (𝑆 2 + 2𝑆 + 4) = 0
𝑆 5 + 11.4𝑆 4 + 39𝑆 3 + (43.6 + 𝐾)𝑆 2 + (24 + 2𝐾)𝑆 + 4𝐾 = 0
Using Routh array

29 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

S5 1 39 24+2K

S4 11.4 43.6+K 4K

S3 401 – K 273.6+18.8K

2 −𝐾 2 + 143.08𝐾 + 14364.56
S 4K
401 − 𝐾
3 2
−22.8𝐾 + 5624.304𝐾 − 334003.584𝐾 + 3930143.616
S1
−𝐾 2 + 143.08𝐾 + 14364.56
S0 4K
a) From the above array
from row S0: 4K > 0 → K>0 (1)
from row S3: 401 – K > 0 → K < 401 (2)
from row S2: −𝐾 2 + 143.08𝐾 + 14364.56 > 0
𝐾 2 − 143.08𝐾 − 14364.56 < 0
(𝐾 − 211.1198)(𝐾 + 68.0398) < 0
In that case we have 2 scenarios:
First Scenario Second Scenario
(𝐾 − 211.1198) > 0 → 𝐾 > 211.1198 (𝐾 − 211.1198) < 0 → 𝐾 < 211.1198 (3)
(𝐾 + 68.0398) < 0 → 𝐾 < −68.0398 (𝐾 + 68.0398) > 0 → 𝐾 > −68.0398 (4)

The 2nd Scenario is accepted

from row S1: −22.8𝐾 3 + 5624.304𝐾 2 − 334003.584𝐾 + 3930143.616 > 0
𝐾 3 − 246.68𝐾 2 + 14649.28𝐾 − 172374.72 < 0
(𝐾 − 163.5568)(𝐾 − 67.5126)(𝐾 − 15.6106) < 0
In that case we have 3 scenarios:

30 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

First Scenario Second Scenario

(𝐾 − 163.5568) > 0 → 𝐾 > 163.5568 (𝐾 − 163.5568) > 0 → 𝐾 > 163.5568
(𝐾 − 67.5126) > 0 → 𝐾 > 67.5126 (𝐾 − 67.5126) < 0 → 𝐾 < 67.5126
(𝐾 − 15.6106) < 0 → 𝐾 < 15.6106 (𝐾 − 15.6106) > 0 → 𝐾 > 15.6106

Third Scenario:
(𝐾 − 163.5568) < 0 → 𝐾 < 163.5568 (5)
(𝐾 − 67.5126) > 0 → 𝐾 > 67.5126 (6)
(𝐾 − 15.6106) > 0 → 𝐾 > 15.6106

The range of K for stability is 0 < K < 15.6106 & 67.5126 < K < 163.5568##
b) The maximum value of K for stability is at K = 15.6106 & K=67.5126 & K=163.5568
This value is obtained from the row S1 so the auxiliary equation A(S) is obtained from S2
𝐴(𝑠) = (−𝐾 2 + 143.08𝐾 + 14364.56)𝑆 2 + 4𝐾 (401 − 𝐾 ) = 0
At K= 15.6106;
16354.43382 S2 + 24064.63907 = 0 → S = ±J1.213 rad/s

At K= 67.5126;
19466.31165 S2 + 90058.40576 = 0 → S = ±J2.1509 rad/s

At K= 163.5568;
11015.44012 S2 + 155341.8 = 0 → S = ±J3.7553 rad/s

31 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Sheet 7 (Stability of linear systems)

Problem #1
Utilizing the Routh-Hurwitz criterion, determine the stability of the following
polynomials:
(a) q(s) = s2 + 5s + 2
(b) q(s) = s3 + 20s2 + 5s + 100
(c) q(s) = s3 + 3s2 + 4s + 2
(d) q(s) = s3 + 2s2 – 4s + 20
(e) q(s) = s4 + s3 + 2s2 + 10s + 8
(f) q(s) = s5 + s4 + 2s3 + s + 5
(g) q(s) = s5 + s4 + 2s3 + s2 + s + 15
(h) q(s) = s6 + 2s5 + 8s4 + 12s3 + 20s2 + 16s +16
Problem #2
Utilizing the Routh-Hurwitz criterion, determine the range of K that results in a stable
system of the following characteristic equations:
(a) q(s) = s3 + 10s2 + 29s + K
(b) q(s) = s3 + 3s2 + (K + 1)s + 6
(c) q(s) = s3 + (K + 2)s2 + 2Ks + 10
(d) q(s) = s4 + s3 + 3s2 + 2s + K
(e) q(s) = s4 + 2s3 + (4 + K) s2 + 9s + 25
(f) q(s) = s4 + Ks3 + 5s2 + 10s + 10K
(g) q(s) = s4 + Ks3 + 2s2 + (K + 1)s + 10
(h) q(s) = s5 + s4 + 2s3 + s2 + s + K

Problem #3
A feedback control system has a characteristic equation
q(s) = s3 + (1 + K)s2 + 10s + (5 + 15K)
The parameter K must be positive. What is the maximum value K can assume before
the system becomes unstable? When K is equal to the maximum value, the system
oscillates. Determine the frequency of oscillation.

32 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Problem #4
Consider the closed loop system given in Fig. 1. Find the range of values of K for
which the system is stable.

Fig. 1, A closed-loop control system

Problem 5
Designers have developed small, fast, vertical-takeoff fighter aircraft that are
invisible to radar (stealth aircraft). This aircraft concept uses quickly turning jet
nozzles to steer the airplane. The control system for the heading or direction control
is shown in Fig. 2. Determine the maximum gain of the system for stable operation.

Fig. 2, Aircraft heading control

Problem 6
Consider the system given in Fig. 3. Find the range of values of K for which the
system is stable.

Fig. 3, A closed-loop system

Problem 7
A closed-loop feedback system is shown in Fig. 4. For what range of values of the
parameters K and p is the system stable?

33 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

Fig. 4, Closed-loop system with parameters K and p

Problem 8
Arc welding is one of the most important areas of application for industrial robots. In
most manufacturing welding situations, uncertainties in dimensions of the part,
geometry of the joint, and the welding process itself require the use of sensors for
maintaining weld quality. Several systems use a vision system to measure the
geometry of the puddle of melted metal, as shown in Fig. 5. This system uses a
constant rate of feeding the wire to be melted.
Calculate the maximum value for K for the system that will result in a stable system.

Fig. 5, Welder control

Problem 9
A cassette tape storage device has been designed for mass-storage. It is necessary to
control the velocity of the tape accurately. The speed control of the tape drive is
represented by the system shown in Fig. 6. Determine the limiting gain for a stable
system.

Fig. 6, Tape drive control

Problem 10
Robots can be used in manufacturing and assembly operations that require accurate,
fast, and versatile manipulation. The open-loop transfer function of a direct-drive arm
may be approximated by
K ( s + 10)
G( s) H (s) =
s ( s + 3)(s 2 + 4s + 8)
34 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511
 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

(a) Determine the value of gain K when the system oscillates,

(b) Calculate the roots of the closed-loop system for the K determined in part (a).

Problem 11
Given the forward –path transfer function of a unity feedback control systems,
K ( s + 4)(s + 20) K ( s + 10)(s + 20)
G ( s) = G(s) =
s ( s + 100)(s + 500)
3
s 2 ( s + 2)
K K ( s + 1)
G(s) = G (s) =
s( s + 10)(s + 20) ( s + 2s 2 + 3s + 1)
2

(a) Apply the Routh-Hurwitz criterion to determine the stability of the closed–
loop system as function of K.

(b) Determine the values of K that will cause sustained constant amplitude
oscillations in the system.

(c) Determine the frequency of oscillation.

Problem 12
Consider the following Routh table. Notice that the s5 row was originally all zeros.
Tell how many roots of the original polynomial were in the right-half plane, in the
left-half plane, and on the jω-axis.

35 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511

 Benha University Electrical Engineering Department
College of Engineering at Shubra Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein

References:
[1] Bosch, R. GmbH. Automotive Electrics and Automotive Electronics, 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons
Ltd., UK, 2007.
[2] Franklin, G. F., Powell, J. D., and Emami-Naeini, A. Feedback Control of Dynamic Systems.
Addison-Wesley, Reading, MA, 1986.
[3] Dorf, R. C. Modern Control Systems, 5th ed. Addison-Wesley, Reading, MA, 1989.
[4] Nise, N. S. Control System Engineering, 6th ed. John Wiley & Sons Ltd., UK, 2011.
[5] Ogata, K. Modern Control Engineering, 5th ed ed. Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ, 2010.
[6] Kuo, B. C. Automatic Control Systems, 5th ed. Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ, 1987.

36 Chapter Nine: Stability Analysis Dr. Ahmed Mustafa Hussein EE3511