Identification Methods for Ordinal Potential Differential Games

Abstract This paper introduces two new identification methods for the class of linear quadratic (LQ) ordinal potential differential games (OPDGs). Potential games are notable for their benefits, including the computability and guaranteed existence of Nash Equilibria. Previous literature has explored the analysis of static ordinal potential games, yet their applicability to various engineering applications remains limited. Despite the previous introduction of the core idea of OPDGs, a systematic method for identifying a potential game for a given LQ differential game has not been developed yet. To address this research gap, this paper proposes two identification methods that provide the quadratic potential cost function for the given LQ differential game. Both identification methods are based on linear matrix inequalities. The first identification method aims to minimize the condition number of the potential cost function's parameters, providing a faster and more precise technique compared to earlier solutions. In addition, an evaluation regarding the feasibility of system structure requirements is presented. With a less rigid formulation, the second identification technique can successfully identify LQ OPDGs in instances where the first method fails. These two novel identification methods are verified through simulations. The results demonstrate their advantages and potential in designing and analyzing cooperative control systems.