Fuzzy model predictive control of non-linear processes using convolution models and foraging algorithms

In this paper, a fuzzy model predictive control (FMPC) approach is introduced to design a control system for nonlinear processes. The proposed control strategy has been successfully employed for representative, benchmark chemical processes. Each nonlinear process system is described by fuzzy convolution models, which comprise a number of quasi-linear fuzzy implications (FIs). Each FI is employed to describe a fuzzy-set based relation between control input and model output. A quadratic optimization problem is then formulated, which minimizes the difference between the model predictions and the desired trajectory over a predefined predictive horizon and the requirement of control energy over a shorter control horizon. The present work proposes to solve this optimization problem by employing a contemporary population-based evolutionary optimization strategy, called the Bacterial Foraging Optimization (BFO) algorithm. The solution of this optimization problem is utilized to determine optimal controller parameters. The utility of the proposed controller is demonstrated by applying it to two non-linear chemical processes, where this controller could achieve better performances than those achieved by similar competing controller, under various operating conditions and design considerations. Further comparisons between various stochastic optimization algorithms have been reported and the efficacy of the proposed approach over similar optimization based algorithms has been concluded employing suitable performance indices.

► Nonlinear processes are modeled using fuzzy convolution models.
► These models are used in a model-predictive control (MPC) formalism.
► Bacterial Foraging Optimization (BFO) selects the optimal weights for the MPC.
► The controller performances are reported and compared.
► Other heuristic optimization strategies are used and BFO is demonstrated superior.