Recent technological innovations have caused a considerable interest in the study of dynamical processes having a heterogeneous continuous and discrete nature. Such hybrid systems are characterized by the interaction of continuous parts, governed by differential or difference equations, and by discrete parts, described by finite state machines, if-then-else rules, propositional and temporal logic. Hybrid systems switch between many operating modes where each mode is governed by its own characteristic dynamical laws. Mode transitions are triggered by variables crossing specific thresholds (state events), by the elapse of certain time periods (time events), or by external inputs (input events). Typical hybrid systems are embedded systems, constituted by dynamical components governed by logical/discrete decision components. Application areas of hybrid systems include automotive, manufacturing, communication networks, aerospace, robotics, traffic control, and chemical processes.

Hybrid systems require interdisciplinary approaches exploiting formal methods in computer science, control theory, operations research. The development of a theory and general tools for controller synthesis, verification, stability and performance analysis, are still in their infancy. An increased participation from researchers in the area of hybrid systems is expected.

For more information about academic and industrial research groups currently active on hybrid systems and additional technical resources please visit the web page
http://www.dii.unisi.it/~hybrid/ieee