Iterative learning model predictive control for constrained multivariable control of batch processes

In this paper, we propose a model predictive control (MPC) technique combined with iterative learning control (ILC), called the iterative learning model predictive control (ILMPC), for constrained multivariable control of batch processes. Although the general ILC makes the outputs converge to reference trajectories under model uncertainty, it uses open-loop control within a batch; thus, it cannot reject real-time disturbances. The MPC algorithm shows identical performance for all batches, and it highly depends on model quality because it does not use previous batch information. We integrate the advantages of the two algorithms. The proposed ILMPC formulation is based on general MPC and incorporates an iterative learning function into MPC. Thus, it is easy to handle various issues for which the general MPC is suitable, such as constraints, time-varying systems, disturbances, and stochastic characteristics. Simulation examples are provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed ILMPC.     

High-order iterative learning model predictive control for batch chemical processes

In order to address two-dimensional (2D) control issue for a class of batch chemical processes, we propose a novel high-order iterative learning model predictive control (HILMPC) method in this paper. A set of local state-space models are first constructed to represent the batch chemical processes by adopting the just-in-time learning (JITL) technique. Meanwhile, a pre-clustered strategy is used to lessen the computational burden of the modelling process and improve the modelling efficiency. Then, a two-stage 2D controller is designed to achieve integrated control by combining high-order iterative learning control (HILC) on the batch domain with model predictive control (MPC) on the time domain. The resulting HILMPC controller can not only guarantee the convergence of the system on the batch domain, but also guarantee the closed-loop stability of the system on the time domain. The convergence of the HILMPC method is ensured by rigorous analysis. Two examples are presented in the end to demonstrate that the developed method provides better control performance than its previous counterpart.     

Iterative learning reliable control of batch processes with sensor faults

An iterative learning reliable control (ILRC) scheme is developed in this paper for batch processes with unknown disturbances and sensor faults. The batch process is transformed into and treated as a two-dimensional Fornasini-Marchesini (2D-FM) model. Under the proposed control law, the closed-loop system with unknown disturbances and sensor faults not only converges along both the time and the cycle directions, but also satisfies certain H_∞ performance. For performance comparison, a traditional reliable control (TRC) law based on dynamic output feedback is also developed by considering the batch process in each cycle as a continuous process. Conditions for the existence of ILRC scheme are given as biaffine and linear matrix inequalities. Algorithms are given to solve these matrix inequalities and to optimize performance indices. Applications to injection packing pressure control show that the proposed scheme can achieve the design objectives well, with performance improvement along both time and cycle directions, and also has good robustness to uncertain initialization and measurement disturbances.     

Robustness of reinforced gradient-type iterative learning control for batch processes with Gaussian noise☆

In this paper, a reinforced gradient-type iterative learning control profile is proposed by making use of system matrices and a proper learning step to improve the tracking performance of batch processes disturbed by exter-nal Gaussian white noise. The robustness is analyzed and the range of the step is specified by means of statistical technique and matrix theory. Compared with the conventional one, the proposed algorithm is more efficient to resist external noise. Numerical simulations of an injection molding process il ustrate that the proposed scheme is feasible and effective.     

A novel two-dimensional PID controller design using two-dimensional model predictive iterative learning control optimization for batch processes

It is known that the key indicators of batch processes are controlled by conventional proportional–integral–derivative (PID) strategies from the view of one-dimensional (1D) framework. Under such conditions, the information among batches cannot be used sufficiently; meanwhile, the repetitive disturbances also cannot be handled well. In order to deal with such situations, a novel two-dimensional PID controller optimized by two-dimensional model predictive iterative learning control (2D-PID-MPILC) is proposed. The contributions of this paper can be summarized as follows. First, a novel two-dimensional PID (2D-PID) controller is developed by combining the advantages of a PID-type iterative learning control (PIDILC) strategy and the conventional PID method. This novel 2D-PID controller overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages and extends the conventional PID algorithm from one-dimension to two-dimensions. Second, the tuning guidelines of the presented 2D-PID controller are obtained from the two-dimensional model predictive control iterative control (2D-MPILC) method. Thus, the proposed approach inherits the advantages of both PID control, PIDILC strategy, and 2D-MPILC scheme. The superiority of the proposed method is verified by the case study on the injection modelling process.     

基于线性时变扰动模型的间歇过程最优迭代学习控制

A batch-to-batch optimal iterative learning control (ILC) strategy for the tracking control of product quality in batch processes is presented. The linear time-varying perturbation (LTVP) model is built for product quality around the nominal trajectories. To address problems of model-plant mismatches, model prediction errors in the previous batch run are added to the model predictions for the current batch run. Then tracking error transition models can be built, and the ILC law with direct error feedback is explicitly obtained. A rigorous theorem is proposed, to prove the convergence of tracking error under ILC. The proposed methodology is illustrated on a typical batch reactor and the results show that the performance of trajectory tracking is gradually improved by the ILC.     

Adaptive soft sensor modeling framework based on just-in-time learning and kernel partial least squares regression for nonlinear multiphase batch processes

Batch processes are characterized by inherent nonlinearity, multiple phases and time-varying behavior that pose great challenges for accurate state estimation. A multiphase just-in-time (MJIT) learning based kernel partial least squares (KPLS) method is proposed for multiphase batch processes. Gaussian mixture model is estimated to identify different operating phases where various JIT-KPLS frameworks are built. By applying Bayesian inference strategy, the query data is classified into a particular phase with the maximal posterior probability, and thus the corresponding JIT-KPLS framework is chosen for online prediction. To further improve the predictive accuracy of the MJIT-KPLS algorithm, a hybrid similarity measure and an adaptive selection strategy are proposed for selecting local modeling samples. Moreover, maximal similarity replacement rule is proposed to update database. A procedure of input variable selection based on partial mutual information is also presented. The effectiveness of the MJIT-KPLS algorithm is demonstrated through application to industrial fed-batch chlortetracycline fermentation process.     

基于T-S模糊模型的间歇过程的迭代学习容错控制

间歇过程不仅具有强非线性,同时还会受到诸如执行器等故障影响,研究非线性间歇过程在具有故障的情况下依然稳定运行至关重要。针对执行器增益故障及系统所具有的强非线性,提出一种新的基于间歇过程的T-S模糊模型的复合迭代学习容错控制方法。首先根据间歇过程的非线性模型,利用扇区非线性方法建立其T-S模糊故障模型,再利用间歇过程的二维特性与重复特性,在2D系统理论框架内,设计2D复合ILC容错控制器,进而构建此T-S模糊模型的等价二维Rosser模型,接着利用Lyapunov方法给出系统稳定充分条件并求解控制器增益。针对强非线性的连续搅拌釜进行仿真,结果表明所提出方法具有可行性与有效性。     

Iterative learning control for the systematic design of supersaturation controlled batch cooling crystallisation processes

The paper presents an approach to improve the product quality from batch-to-batch by exploiting the repetitive nature of batch processes to update the operating trajectories using process knowledge obtained from previous runs. The data based methodology is focused on using the linear time varying (LTV) perturbation model in an iterative learning control (ILC) framework to provide a convergent batch-to-batch improvement of the process performance indicator. The major contribution of this work is the development of a novel hierarchical ILC (HILC) scheme for systematic design of the supersaturation controller (SSC) of seeded batch cooling crystallizers. The HILC is used to determine the required supersaturation setpoint for the SSC and the corresponding temperature trajectory required to produce crystals with desired end-point property. The performance and robustness of these approaches are evaluated through simulation case studies. These results demonstrate the potential of the ILC approaches for controlling batch processes without rigorous process models.     

Robust model predictive control and fault handling of batch processes

This work considers the control of batch processes subject to input constraints and model uncertainty with the objective of achieving a desired product quality. First, a computationally efficient nonlinear robust Model Predictive Control (MPC) is designed. The robust MPC scheme uses robust reverse‐time reachability regions (RTRRs), which we define as the set of process states that can be driven to a desired neighborhood of the target end‐point subject to input constraints and model uncertainty. A multilevel optimization‐based algorithm to generate robust RTRRs for specified uncertainty bounds is presented. We then consider the problem of uncertain batch processes subject to finite duration faults in the control actuators. Using the robust RTRR‐based MPC as the main tool, a robust safe‐steering framework is developed to address the problem of how to operate the functioning inputs during the fault repair period to ensure that the desired end‐point neighborhood can be reached upon recovery of the full control effort. The applicability of the proposed robust RTRR‐based controller and safe‐steering framework subject to limited availability of measurements and sensor noise are illustrated using a fed‐batch reactor system. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011     

Data‐driven model predictive quality control of batch processes

The problem of driving a batch process to a specified product quality using data‐driven model predictive control (MPC) is described. To address the problem of unavailability of online quality measurements, an inferential quality model, which relates the process conditions over the entire batch duration to the final quality, is required. The accuracy of this type of quality model, however, is sensitive to the prediction of the future batch behavior until batch termination. In this work, we handle this “missing data” problem by integrating a previously developed data‐driven modeling methodology, which combines multiple local linear models with an appropriate weighting function to describe nonlinearities, with the inferential model in a MPC framework. The key feature of this approach is that the causality and nonlinear relationships between the future inputs and outputs are accounted for in predicting the final quality and computing the manipulated input trajectory. The efficacy of the proposed predictive control design is illustrated via closed‐loop simulations of a nylon‐6,6 batch polymerization process with limited measurements. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 2852–2861, 2013     

一类间歇生产过程的迭代学习控制算法及其收敛性分析

针对基于迭代学习控制的间歇过程产品质量优化控制算法难以进行收敛性分析的难题,并且考虑到实际生产中存在外部干扰和不确定因素的影响,本文对间歇过程模型参数动态更新问题进行了分析,建立了间歇生产过程产品质量的神经模糊(NF)预测模型,提出了一种新颖的批次轴参数自适应调节算法。在此基础上,构造了一种基于数据驱动的间歇生产过程产品质量迭代学习控制算法,并对优化问题的收敛性给出了严格的数学证明。最后,将本文提出的算法用于一类典型的间歇过程终点质量控制研究,仿真结果验证了本文算法的有效性和实用价值,为间歇过程的优化控制提供了一条新途径。     

A model-based control framework for industrial batch crystallization processes

Dynamic optimization is applied for throughput maximization of a semi-industrial batch crystallization process. The control strategy is based on a non-linear moment model. The dynamic model, consisting of a set of differential and algebraic equations, is optimized using the simultaneous optimization approach in which all the state and input trajectories are parameterized. The resulting problem is subsequently solved by a non-linear programming algorithm.     

Modeling and predictive control of nonlinear processes using transfer learning method

This work develops a transfer learning (TL) framework for modeling and predictive control of nonlinear systems using recurrent neural networks (RNNs) with the knowledge obtained in modeling one process transferred to another. Specifically, transfer learning uses a pretrained model developed based on a source domain as the starting point, and adapts the model to a target process with similar configurations. The generalization error for TL-based RNN (TL-RNN) is first derived to demonstrate the generalization capability on the target process. The theoretical error bound that depends on model capacity and the discrepancy between source and target domains is then utilized to guide the development of pretrained models for improved model transferability. Subsequently, the TL-RNN model is utilized as the prediction model in model predictive controller (MPC) for the target process. Finally, the simulation study of chemical reactors via Aspen Plus Dynamics is used to demonstrate the benefits of transfer learning.     

Model based robust control approach for batch crystallization product design

The paper presents a novel control approach for crystallization processes, which can be used for designing the shape of the crystal size distribution to robustly achieve desired product properties. The approach is based on a robust optimal control scheme, which takes parametric uncertainties into account to provide decreased batch-to-batch variability of the shape of the crystal size distribution. Both open-loop and closed-loop robust control schemes are evaluated. The open-loop approach is based on a robust end-point nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) scheme which is implemented in a hierarchical structure. On the lower level a supersaturation control approach is used that drives the system in the phase diagram according to a concentration versus temperature trajectory. On the higher level a robust model-based optimization algorithm adapts the setpoint of the supersaturation controller to counteract the effects of changing operating conditions. The process is modelled using the population balance equation (PBE), which is solved using a novel efficient approach that combines the quadrature method of moment (QMOM) and method of characteristics (MOC). The proposed robust model based control approach is corroborated for the case of various desired shapes of the target distribution.     

基于KPLS模型的间歇过程产品质量控制

针对间歇过程所具有的非线性特性,提出了一种基于核偏最小二乘(KPLS)模型的最终产品质量控制策略。利用初始条件、批次展开后的过程数据以及最终产品质量建立了间歇过程的KPLS模型;采用基于主成分分析(PCA)映射的预估方法对未知的过程数据进行补充,实现了最终产品质量的在线预测。为了解决最终产品质量的控制,利用T2统计量确定KPLS模型的适用范围,并作为约束引入产品质量控制问题,提高控制策略的可行性;采用粒子群优化(PSO)算法实现了优化问题的高效求解。仿真结果表明,与基于偏最小二乘(PLS)模型的控制策略相比,所提出的方法具有更高的预测精度,且能有效解决产品质量控制中出现的各种问题。     

时变间歇过程的2D-PID自适应控制方法

针对间歇过程存在的参数时变问题,提出一种基于二维PID(2D-PID)迭代学习框架的自适应控制方法。首先,通过粒子群优化算法快速获取初始的2D-PID控制参数。在批次内,采用自调整神经元PID控制器对其进行在线自适应调节。进一步,考虑批次间的重复特性,通过PID型迭代学习控制,以利用历史批次的信息来修正当前批次的调节变量,最终提高控制性能。通过间歇发酵过程的仿真和比较研究,验证了所提出方法的有效性。     

Hybrid fuzzy predictive control based on genetic algorithms for the temperature control of a batch reactor

In this paper we describe the design of hybrid fuzzy predictive control based on a genetic algorithm (GA). We also present a simulation test of the proposed algorithm and a comparison with two hybrid predictive control methods: Explicit Enumeration and Branch and Bound (BB). The experiments involved controlling the temperature of a batch reactor by using two on/off input valves and a discrete-position mixing valve. The GA-hybrid predictive control strategy proved to be a suitable method for the control of hybrid systems, giving similar performance to that of typical hybrid predictive control strategies and a significant saving with respect to the computation time.     

一种间歇过程产品质量迭代学习控制策略

针对基于迭代学习控制的间歇过程产品质量优化控制算法难以进行收敛性分析的难题,以数据驱动的神经模糊模型为基础,提出一种新颖间歇过程的产品质量迭代学习控制方法。通过在优化算法中加入了新的约束条件,改变了最优解的搜索空间范围,从而使产品质量在批次轴上收敛,并创新性地对优化问题的收敛性给出了严格的数学证明。在理论研究的基础上,将提出的算法用于间歇连续反应釜的终点质量控制研究,仿真结果验证了本文算法的有效性和实用价值,为间歇过程的优化控制提供了一条新途径。     

Handling sensor faults in economic model predictive control of batch processes

The problem of sensor fault detection and isolation (FDI) and fault-tolerant economic model predictive control (FT-EMPC) for batch processes is addressed. To this end, we first model batch processes using subspace-based system identification techniques. The analytical redundancy within the identified model is subsequently exploited to detect, isolate, and handle the faulty measurements. The reconciled fault-free measurements are then incorporated in an economic model predictive controller formulation. Simulation case studies involving the application of the proposed data-driven FDI and FT-EMPC algorithms to the energy intensive electric arc furnace process illustrate the improvement in economic performance under various fault scenarios. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 65: 617–628, 2019