Nonlinear MPC based on a Volterra series model for greenhouse temperature control using natural ventilation

Suitable environmental conditions are a fundamental issue in greenhouse crop growth and can be achieved by advanced climate control strategies. In different climatic zones, natural ventilation is used to regulate both the greenhouse temperature and humidity. In mild climates, the greatest problem faced by far in greenhouse climate control is cooling, which, for dynamical reasons, leads to natural ventilation as a standard tool. This work addresses the design of a nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) strategy for greenhouse temperature control using natural ventilation. The NMPC strategy is based on a second-order Volterra series model identified from experimental input/output data of a greenhouse. These models, representing the simple and logical extension of convolution models, can be used to approximate the nonlinear dynamic effect of the ventilation and other environmental conditions on the greenhouse temperature. The developed NMPC is applied to a greenhouse and the control performance of the proposed strategy will be illustrated by means of experimental results.

Research highlights
► Second-order Volterra model describing the inside greenhouse temperature.
► Nonlinear predictive controller to control the diurnal greenhouse temperature.
► Adequate results for different agricultural seasons (spring and autumn).