On an output-feedback stabilization problem with uncertainty in the relative degree

This paper deals with an output-feedback finite-time control problem for a class of nonlinear uncertain systems whose relative degree is affected by an uncertain system parameter and is therefore unknown at the stage of control design. We show that an existing second-order sliding mode control algorithm can address successfully the control task of finite-time output-feedback stabilization when the uncertain relative degree is equal to 1 or 2. We derive constructive tuning rules for the control parameters and show its effectiveness by means of computer simulations.