On observability of multi-agent networks based on impulsive and switching systems

In real dynamic environments, impulsive effects may arise in the evolution of agents due to sudden communication interruptions or topological reconfigurations. However, existing observability studies in dynamic topological scenarios tend to ignore the impact of impulsive effects, which leads to limitations in the applicability of existing theories. To address this gap, this paper proposes an impulsive multi-agents systems (IMAS) modelling framework that incorporates both impulsive effects and switching dynamics. The model combines conventional and instantaneous communication interactions. Combining algebraic analyses and geometric tools, a observability determination condition of IMAS is established. Furthermore, it is explained that if IMAS is unobservable in short periods, the possibility of observability in multiple periods also exists. Finally, the reliability of the observability determination matrix is demonstrated with numerical example.