Inferential control of processes: Part II. The structure and dynamics of inferential control systems

Abstract The static estimator of part I is incorporated into a dynamic control system. The system structure minimizes output feedback and thereby achieves stability even in the event of significant modeling errors. This inherent stability permits the use of simple and economical lead‐lag compensation for the estimator and controller portions of the system. The overall system response to disturbances is similar to that of feed‐forward control systems. The proposed control system structure is used to infer and control the overhead and bottoms product compositions of a simulated multicomponent distillation. Product compositions are inferred from selected stage temperature and process flow measurements. Inferential control system response to various disturbances is comparable or superior to that of a tuned composition feedback control system for both single product control and for simultaneus overhead and bottoms product control.