A generalization of Conventional Matrix Product (CMP), called the Semi-Tensor Product (STP), is proposed. It extends the CMP to two arbitrary matrices and maintains all fundamental properties of CMP. In addition, it has a pseudo-commutative property, which makes it more superior to CMP. The STP was proposed by the authors to deal with higher-dimensional data as well as multilinear mappings. After over a decade of development, STP has been proven to be a powerful tool in dealing with nonlinear and logical calculations. This book is a comprehensive introduction to the theory of STP and its various applications, including logical function, fuzzy control, Boolean networks, analysis and control of nonlinear systems, amongst others.

Analysis and Control of Boolean Networks presents a systematic new approach to the investigation of Boolean control networks. The fundamental tool in this approach is a novel matrix product called the semi-tensor product (STP). Using the STP, a logical function can be expressed as a conventional discrete-time linear system. In the light of this linear expression, certain major issues concerning Boolean network topology - fixed points, cycles, transient times and basins of attractors - can be easily revealed by a set of formulae. This framework renders the state-space approach to dynamic control systems applicable to Boolean control networks. The bilinear-systemic representation of a Boolean control network makes it possible to investigate basic control problems including controllability, observability, stabilization, disturbance decoupling etc.

Analysis and Control of Boolean Networks presents a systematic new approach to the investigation of Boolean control networks. The fundamental tool in this approach is a novel matrix product called the semi-tensor product (STP). Using the STP, a logical function can be expressed as a conventional discrete-time linear system. In the light of this linear expression, certain major issues concerning Boolean network topology - fixed points, cycles, transient times and basins of attractors - can be easily revealed by a set of formulae. This framework renders the state-space approach to dynamic control systems applicable to Boolean control networks. The bilinear-systemic representation of a Boolean control network makes it possible to investigate basic control problems including controllability, observability, stabilization, disturbance decoupling etc.