The aim of this paper is to test the usefulness of a new approach based on partial feedback linearization to control the Pendubot. The control problem stated in the article is to stabilize the Pendubot in the upright position. In particular, properties of the closed-loop system and the zero dynamics are investigated and illustrated by results of simulations. Next, the performance of a hybrid-like controller in the case of input saturation is evaluated by conduction extensive simulation trails. The experimental results suggest that the considered control methodology can be successfully applied for a real system.

This paper considers the issue of linear-quadratic regulator (LQR) design for nonlinear systems with the use of smooth state and input transformations. The proposed design methodology is considered in the stabilisation task of the Pendubot, which is based on the concept of feedback equivalent control systems. It turns out that it is possible to find a controller that ensures comparable dynamics of the closed-loop system in the vicinity of the set point regardless of the state-space representation adopted. In addition, the synthesis of suboptimal controllers according to the LQR strategy ensuring equal dynamics at the equilibrium point is presented. The properties of the studied controllers were investigated in a simulation environment and using experimental tests. The detailed forms of transformations and linear approximations given can be regarded as ready-made procedures that can be applied to stabilise similar mechanical systems in robotics.

In this paper the novel control and communication scheme designed to ease the development and maintenance of the robotic astronomical telescope device is presented. The proposed solution allows the user to remotely access any signal in the controller of the telescope without imposing any additional overhead during telescope operation. The implemented scheme can be used by both an automated control system and human operators for easy supervision, control, and maintenance of the device.