Feedback Diagram Application for the Generation and Solution of Linear Differential Equations Solvable by Quadrature

Abstract

A novel method for generating and providing quadrature solutions to families of linear, second-order, ordinary differential equations is presented in this paper. It is based upon a comparison of control system feedback diagrams—one representing the system and equation under study and a second equalized to it and providing solutions. The resulting Riccati equation connection between them is utilized to generate and solve groups of equations parameterized by arbitrary functions and constants. This method also leads to a formal solution mechanism for all second-order linear differential equations involving an infinite series of integrals of each equation’s Schwarzian derivative. The practicality of this mechanism is strongly dependent on the series rates of and allowed regions for convergence. The feedback diagram method developed is shown to be equivalent to a comparable method based on the differential equation’s normal form and another relying upon the grouping of terms for a reduction of the equation order, but augmenting their results. Applications are also made to the Helmholtz equation.