The Control Systems Technology group focuses on understanding the fundamental system properties that determine the performance of controlled engineering systems. Based on these insights, the program develops new models, methods and design principles such that significant performance improvements are realized. In the recent KNAW/QANU assessment, the Control Systems Technology group was rated excellent at all aspects (5555), as can be seen in the assessment report (p. 76-77).
The engineering question for the design problem of high-performance systems is: how to find the best combination of controller and plant realization such that the performance is within specification for all prescribed situations (disturbances and system variations).
The scientific question is how to initiate a paradigm shift in achievable performance by using acquired insights into the fundamental properties of the problem. It is clear that the scientific question has a strong interrelationship with the engineering question, in which the latter has the role of validation and inspiration for new directions of research.