Modeling and Control of the Oxygen Saturation in Neonatal Infants

In this work, a nonlinear model is developed to simulate the respiratory system of neonatal infants. The nonlinear model is based on a model proposed by other researchers, but with varying parameters based on the oxygen saturation output [1]. The nonlinear model response is compared to the response of a linearized model given small and large step inputs. For small step sizes, the nonlinear and linear models responses are nearly identical. For larger step sizes, the nonlinear model has a higher steady state response. The linear and nonlinear models are also compared to clinical data taken from a bedside monitor. An error model is also developed given known ranges for model parameter variations. Since the varying parameters change performance, a robust controller is designed using the error model and performance specifications using a μ-synthesis optimization. The controller is shown to have robust stability and performance.