On the Choice of Multiple Flat Outputs for Fault Detection and Isolation of a Flat System

This paper presents a rigorous definition of the isolability of a fault in a flat system whose flat outputs are measured by sensors that are subject to faults. In particular, if only one sensor or actuator is faulty at a time, we show that the isolation of faults can be achieved if a pair of flat outputs satisfies some independence condition. A detailed characterization of this condition is presented. Finally, the pertinence of the isolability concept is demonstrated on the example of a three tank system.