Stability theorems for multidimensional linear systems with variable parameters

Abstract

A Liapunov-type approach is used to derive two equivalent theorems which govern the stability of coupled linear systems with varying multiple parameters. The theorems generalize some of the existing theorems applicable to systems with constant parameters and the Sonin-Polya theorem applicable to a single-degree-of-freedom system with variable coefficients. As an illustration, the proposed theorems are applied to mechanical systems with varying inertia, stiffness, gyroscopic, and damping terms, and velocity and position-dependent forces.