An Input-Output Approach to Structured Stochastic Uncertainty in Continuous Time

Abstract: We consider the continuous-time setting of linear time-invariant (LTI) systems in feedback with multiplicative stochastic uncertainties. The objective of the paper is to characterize the conditions of Mean-Square Stability (MSS) using a purely input-output approach, i.e. without having to resort to state space realizations. This has the advantage of encompassing a wider class of models (such as infinite dimensional systems and systems with delays). The input-output approach leads to uncovering new tools such as stochastic block diagrams that have an intimate connection with the more general Stochastic Integral Equations (SIE), rather than Stochastic Differential Equations (SDE). Various stochastic interpretations are considered, such as It=o and Stratonovich, and block diagram conversion schemes between different interpretations are devised. The MSS conditions are given in terms of the spectral radius of a matrix operator that takes different forms when different stochastic interpretations are considered.