A genetic algorithm tuned optimal controller for glucose regulation in type 1 diabetic subjects

An optimal state feedback controller is designed with the objective of minimizing the elevated glucose levels caused by meal intake in Type 1 diabetic subjects, by the minimal infusion of insulin. The states for the controller based on linear quadratic regulator theory are estimated from noisy data using Kalman filter. The controller designed for a physiological relevant mathematical model is coupled with another model for simulating meal dynamics, which converts meal intake into glucose appearance rate in the plasma. The tuning parameters (weighting matrices) of the controller and the design parameters (noise covariance matrices) of the Kalman filter are optimized using genetic algorithm. The controller based on the combined framework of evolutionary computing and state estimated linear quadratic regulator is found to maintain normoglycemia for meal intakes of varying carbohydrate content. The proposed approach addresses noisy output measurement, modeling error and delay in sensor measurement.