Single module identifiability in linear dynamic networks with partial excitation and measurement

TL;DR

This paper develops generalized conditions for identifying a single module in linear dynamic networks with partial excitation and measurement, including graphical criteria and synthesis methods for signal allocation.

Contribution

It introduces a novel network model incorporating unmeasured noise excitation, broadening identifiability analysis beyond fully excited or measured networks.

Findings

Graphical conditions for global and generic identifiability

Synthesis methods for excitation and measurement signal allocation

Extension of results to multiple module identifiability

Abstract

Identifiability of a single module in a network of transfer functions is determined by whether a particular transfer function in the network can be uniquely distinguished within a network model set, on the basis of data. Whereas previous research has focused on the situations that all network signals are either excited or measured, we develop generalized analysis results for the situation of partial measurement and partial excitation. As identifiability conditions typically require a sufficient number of external excitation signals, this work introduces a novel network model structure such that excitation from unmeasured noise signals is included, which leads to less conservative identifiability conditions than relying on measured excitation signals only. More importantly, graphical conditions are developed to verify global and generic identifiability of a single module based on the topology of the dynamic network. Depending on whether the input or the output of the module can be measured, we present four identifiability conditions which cover all possible situations in single module identification. These conditions further lead to synthesis approaches for allocating excitation signals and selecting measured signals, to warrant single module identifiability. In addition, if the identifiability conditions are satisfied, indirect identification methods are developed to provide a consistent estimate of the module. All the obtained results are also extended to identifiability of multiple modules in the network.