Distributed fixed-time formation control for heavy haul trains based on sliding mode control

The problem of distributed fixed-time formation control for heavy haul trains is proposed in this paper. Firstly, a train-following model of multiple heavy haul trains with considering uncertain resistance and unknown disturbances is established, and the information transmission between heavy haul trains follows a predecessor-following topology. Then, based on fixed-time sliding mode control and adaptive control theories, a novel distributed fixed-time formation controller for heavy haul trains is designed. Finally, the control effects of the proposed controller are verified and analyzed by simulations. It is shown that the proposed fixed-time formation controller has more advantages in terms of convergence speed and convergence accuracy compared to the nonfinite-time formation controller. Besides, the convergence time is not affected by the initial state of the trains.