JOURNAL OF OPTIMIZATION THEORY AND APPLICATIONS, cilt.193, sa.1-3, ss.931-949, 2022 (SCI-Expanded)
We analyze the sidewise controllability for the variable coefficients one-dimensional wave equation. The control is acting on one extreme of the string with the aim that the solution tracks a given path or profile at the other free end. This sidewise profile control problem is also often referred to as nodal profile or tracking control. The problem is reformulated as a dual observability property for the corresponding adjoint system, which is proved by means of sidewise energy propagation arguments in a sufficiently large time, in the class of BV-coefficients. We also present a number of open problems and perspectives for further research.