Unified dead-time compensation structure for SISO processes with multiple dead times

Area of Science:

• Control Engineering
• Process Systems Engineering
• Automation and Control Theory

Background:

• Industrial processes frequently exhibit multiple time delays, complicating effective control.
• Existing dead-time compensators often struggle with processes characterized by multiple, distinct time delays.
• Accurate modeling and robust control are essential for stable and efficient process operation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel dead-time compensation structure capable of handling multiple dead times in industrial processes.
• To develop a controller based on the filtered Smith predictor (FSP) applicable to stable, integrating, and unstable systems.
• To achieve internal closed-loop stability with enhanced set-point tracking, disturbance rejection, and robustness.

Main Methods:

• Development of an equivalent process model to define the predictor structure.
• Tuning of the primary controller and predictor filter based on the equivalent model.
• Utilizing simulation case studies to validate the controller's performance and properties.

Main Results:

• The proposed filtered Smith predictor (FSP) structure effectively compensates for multiple dead times.
• The controller demonstrates capability in managing stable, integrating, and unstable processes.
• Achieved internal closed-loop stability and satisfactory performance in set-point tracking, disturbance rejection, and robustness.

Conclusions:

• The proposed dead-time compensation structure offers a robust solution for complex industrial processes with multiple delays.
• The filtered Smith predictor approach provides a versatile and effective control strategy.
• Simulation results confirm the practical applicability and beneficial properties of the developed control system.