Distributed parameter control of a batch fluidised bed dryer

In this paper, a distributed parameter approach is used to model and control a batch fluidised bed dryer. Electric capacitance tomography (ECT) is used as a sensor to measure and control the distributed permittivity in the bed. First, a lumped model is developed to describe the heat and mass transfer between solid, gas and bubble phases in the bed. Then, based on this model, a distributed parameter model is developed to predict the permittivity distribution. Experimental validation confirms the accuracy of the model. Finally, a distributed parameter controller is designed and implemented to regulate the permittivity distribution.