Event-Based GPC for Multivariable Processes: A Practical Approach With Sensor Deadband

In this paper, a practical event-based framework for multivariable processes is introduced. The developed control algorithm is based on a Generalized Predictive Control (GPC) algorithm suitable for multiple-input multiple-output systems. The most important advantage of the proposed control scheme is the adaptability of control actions to process disturbances and process interactions. The application of the developed control system allows us to reduce the amount of messages exchanged between control system agents, what is beneficial for communication burden. Moreover, event-based approach allows us prioritizing the selected control variables, paying more attention to important variables (often related to security or costs), while neglecting the noncritical ones. This is possible through adjusting the sensor deadband value, making feasible a tradeoff between control effort and control performance. Using this approach, it is possible to keep less relevant variables within the established limits, focusing the control system attention on those critical to process operation. The analyzed event-based control technique for multivariable systems is tested through a simulation study and real experiments. The obtained results show several benefits regarding event-based control application, keeping all properties of event-based approach as well as model predictive control ones.