Advanced control theory fills a gap between the mathematical control theory and modern control engineering practices. Advanced control theories may include model predictive control, sliding mode control, robust control, real-time optimization, identification, and estimation, and so forth, which are not limited to controller design. Conceptually, advanced control theories can include any theoretical problems related to the controller design. Advanced control technologies have become ubiquitous in various engineering applications (e.g., chemical process control, robot control, air traffic control, vehicle control, multiagent control, and networked control).

The development of mathematical methods is essential for the applications of advanced control theories. Sometimes, it lacks effective methods to tackle the computational issue (e.g., model predictive control of a fast process). Sometimes, a new application requires a brand-new solver for applying the advanced control theory (e.g., a new production line far exceeding the usual speed).

The main focus of this special issue will be on the new research ideas and results for the mathematical problems in advanced control theories. The special issue will become an international forum for researchers to summarize the most recent developments and ideas in the field, with a special emphasis given to the technical and observational results obtained within the last five years. Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

• Computationally efficient approaches of optimization-based control
• Identification and control of highly nonlinear processes
• New mathematical tools for robust estimation and control
• Mathematical methods for distributed optimization and control
• Advanced control for the high-speed production line
• Optimal control analysis for biological system
• Real applications of the new advanced control theories

Before submission authors should carefully read over the journal's Author Guidelines, which are located at http://www.hindawi.com/journals/jam/guidelines/. Prospective authors should submit an electronic copy of their complete manuscript through the journal Manuscript Tracking System at http://mts.hindawi.com/ according to the following timetable: