On the concept of point value in the infinite-dimensional realization theory

In this article, we study the effect of the chosen representation of a point value (and point evaluation) on the class of periodic signals realizable using a certain type of infinite-dimensional linear system. By suitably representing the point evaluation at the origin in a Hilbert space, we are able to give a complete characterization of its extensions. These extensions involve a new concept called delta-sequence, the use of which as an observation operator of an infinite-dimensional linear system is studied in this article. In particular, we consider their use in the realization of periodic signals. We also investigate how the use of delta-sequences affects the convergence properties of such realizations; we consider the rate and character of convergence and the removal of the Gibbs phenomenon. As still a further demonstration of the significance of the chosen concept of a point value, we discuss the use of distributional point values in the realization of periodic distributions. The possible applications of this work lie in regulator problems of infinite-dimensional control theory, as is indicated by the well-known internal model principle. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.