Developing a robust model predictive control architecture through regional knowledge analysis of artificial neural networks

Chemical processes are nonlinear. Model based control schemes such as model predictive control are highly related to the accuracy of the process model. For a highly nonlinear chemical system, it is clear to implement a nonlinear empirical model, such as artificial neural network model, should be superior to a linear model such as dynamic matrix model. However, unlike linear systems, the accuracy of a nonlinear empirical model strongly depends on its original data or training data based on how the model is built up. A regional-knowledge index is proposed in this study and applied in the analysis of dynamic artificial neural network models in process control. New input patterns that imply extrapolations and thus unreliable prediction by an artificial neural network model can be recognized from a significant decrease in the regional-knowledge index. To tackle the extrapolation problem and assure stability of the control system, we propose to run a neural adaptive controller in parallel with a model predictive control. A coordinator weights the outputs of these two controllers to make the final control decision. The present state of the controlled process and the model fitness to the present input pattern determine the weightings of the controller's output. The proposed analysis method and the modified model predictive control architecture have been applied to a neutralization process and excellent control performance is observed in this highly nonlinear system.