On the Tuning of Nonlinear Model Predictive Control Algorithms

Abstract

Nonlinear Model Predictive Controllers determine appropriate control actions by solving an on-line optimization problem. A nonlinear process model is utilized for on-line prediction, making such algorithms particularly appropriate for the control of chemical reactors. The algorithm presented in this paper incorporates an Extended Kalman Filter, which allows operations around unstable steady-state points. The paper proposes a formalization of the procedure for tuning the several parameters of the control algorithm. This is accomplished by specifying time-domain performance criteria and using an interactive multi- objective optimization package off-line to determine parameter values that satisfy these criteria. A reactor example is used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed on-line algorithm and off-line tuning procedure.