Joint state and parameter estimation for distributed mechanical systems

We present a novel strategy to perform estimation for a dynamical mechanical system in standard operating conditions, namely, without ad hoc experimental testing. We adopt a sequential approach, and the joint state-parameter estimation procedure is based on a state estimator inspired from collocated feedback control. This type of state estimator is chosen due to its particular effectiveness and robustness, but the methodology proposed to adequately extend state estimation to joint state-parameter estimation is general, and - indeed - applicable with any other choice of state feedback observer. The convergence of the resulting joint estimator is mathematically established. In addition, we demonstrate its effectiveness with a biomechanical test problem defined to feature the same essential characteristics as a heart model, in which we identify localized contractility and stiffness parameters using measurements of a type that is available in medical imaging.