Continuous-time model predictive control of food extruder

This paper presents the design and implementation of a continuous-time model predictive controller using Laguerre functions. The application is to control motor torque and specific mechanic energy of an extrusion pilot plant via manipulating screw speed and liquid pump speed. The continuous-time transfer function models are developed using the approach based on state variable filters. The predictive control system is implemented through the existing real-time Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) system in the extruder. Experimental results show satisfactory closed-loop performance of the predictive control system designed.