Model Predictive Control Strategy Research Articles

Coaxial Helicopter Attitude Control System Design by Advanced Model Predictive Control under Disturbance

This paper proposes an advanced model predictive control (MPC) scheme for the attitude tracking of coaxial drones under wind disturbances. Unlike most existing MPC setups, this scheme embeds steady-input, steady-output, and steady-state conditions into the optimization problem as decision variables. Consequently, the coaxial drone’s attitude can slide along the state manifold composed of a series of steady states. This allows it to move toward the optimal reachable equilibrium. To address disturbances that are difficult to accurately measure, an extended state observer is employed to estimate the disturbances in the prediction model. This design ensures that the algorithm maintains recursive stability even in the presence of disturbances. Finally, numerical simulations and flight tests are provided to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method through comparison with other control algorithms.

Model predictive control for multi-period portfolio optimization: a trading-oriented learning approach

Portfolio optimization aims at finding the optimal allocation of a given wealth among different assets to maximize an investor's utility function. A major critical issue concerns the prediction of future asset returns to forecast market evolution, due to the non-stationarity and volatility of asset prices. In this work, a learning-based Model Predictive Control (MPC) strategy for multi-period portfolio optimization is proposed, where the return prediction model is estimated via a novel trading-oriented learning paradigm. According to such a perspective, the model parameters are not the ones minimizing the prediction error but those that directly maximize the investor's utility. An extensive experimental study carried out on real-market data shows the potential improvements introduced by the proposed methodology compared to benchmark financial strategies.

Stable predictive control of continuous stirred-tank reactors using deep learning

In this work, a Lyapunov-based predictive control method utilizing deep learning techniques is proposed for driving continuous-time nonlinear processes towards the desired equilibrium point. Initially, a neural ordinary differential equation model is developed to learn the continuous-time dynamics from discrete-time sampling data. Subsequently, the theoretical conditions that the control Lyapunov function (CLF) developed on the learned continuous-time system is feasible to act on the actual system through a zero-order-holder are analyzed. Building upon the theoretical analysis and the constructed continuous-time dynamics, a deep neural network control Lyapunov function (DNN-CLF) controller is developed. Importantly, the DNN-CLF is independent of the affine system formulation, effectively addressing the challenge of designing the CLF. Benefiting from the stability guarantee provided by the established DNN-CLF, it is integrated into the model predictive control (MPC) framework to develop Lyapunov-based MPC to further improve the control performance. To ensure safety, considering error propagation and associated risks with enlarging the feasible region of the CLF, tubes are constructed and integrated into the MPC scheme. Finally, a numerical simulation of a chemical process is conducted to validate the efficiency of the proposed method.

Integrating dynamic economic optimization and encrypted control for cyber‐resilient operation of nonlinear processes

AbstractThis article proposes a two‐layer framework to maximize economic performance through dynamic process economics optimization while addressing fluctuating real‐world economics and enhancing cyberattack resilience via encryption in the feedback control layer for nonlinear processes. The upper layer employs a Lyapunov‐based economic model predictive control scheme, receiving updated economic information for each operating period, while the lower layer utilizes an encrypted linear feedback control system. Encrypted state information is decrypted in the upper layer to determine the economically optimal dynamic operating trajectory through nonlinear optimization. Conversely, the lower layer securely tracks this trajectory in an encrypted space without decryption. To mitigate the cyber vulnerability of the upper layer, we integrate a cyberattack detector that utilizes sensor‐derived data for attack detection. We quantify the errors stemming from quantization, disturbances, and sample‐and‐hold controller implementation. Simulation results of a nonlinear chemical process highlight the robustness and economic benefits of this new control architecture.

An improved double‐vector model predictive control strategy for four‐switch three‐phase inverter‐fed permanent magnet synchronous motor based on visualisation analysis considering DC voltage pulsation

AbstractTo address the problem of considerable current distortions in traditional single‐vector model predictive control (MPC) method for four‐switch three‐phase inverter (FSTPI)‐fed permanent magnet synchronous motor, a double‐vector MPC scheme has been studied. However, it still lacks a sufficient theoretical foundation, causing doubts about its effectiveness. To perfect this deficiency, a novel visualisation analysis scheme considering DC voltage pulsation is presented to demonstrate the validity of the traditional double‐vector MPC method for FSTPI. The analysis results reveal for the first time that the traditional double‐vector MPC method is not always superior to the single‐vector method as there is no zero voltage vector for FSTPI. So, a new virtual voltage vector is defined to compensate the deteriorated control performance caused by the absence of zero voltage vectors, based on which an improved double‐vector MPC method is further put forward to reduce the current ripples. Then, the presented visualisation analysis is adopted to demonstrate the validity of the improved MPC strategy under pulsating DC voltage conditions. Finally, a new voltage sector division technology is further put forward to simplify the implementation steps of the presented method. Contrastive experimental studies demonstrate the availability of the improved MPC strategy.

Observer-based hierarchical distributed model predictive control for multi-linear motor traction systems

This paper proposes an observer-based hierarchical distributed model predictive control (MPC) strategy for ensuring speed consistency in multi-linear motor traction systems. First, a communication topology is considered to ensure information exchange. Secondly, the control architecture of each agent is divided into upper layers and lower layers. The upper layer utilizes a distributed MPC method to track the leader’s speed. The lower layer uses a decentralized MPC method to track the command signals sent by its upper layer controller. In addition, to eliminate the negative impact of disturbance, a nonlinear disturbance observer is designed. We then prove the asymptotic stability of the entire system by properly designing the Lyapunov equation. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed strategy is verified based on several simulations.

A novel robust MPC scheme established on LMI formulation for surge instability of uncertain compressor system with actuator constraint and piping acoustic

This paper presents a new control method for surge instability of the compressor system. Due to the importance of the active control approach in improving the efficiency of the compressor system, a new scheme based on the model predictive control (MPC) technique has been considered to control surge which gives the benefits of control signal optimization by considering the constraints on states and input. Because of designing a novel MPC by using of linear matrix inequality scheme, the optimization problem is solved in less time and with less complexity. The proposed method is able to consider the limitation of the close coupled valve actuator and also covers the uncertainty on the model. In addition, the developed model describes the nonlinear behaviour of the compressor system and handles the effects of the pipe on surge instability. Using Lyapunov theory, the stability of the closed-loop system under the proposed robust active controller is shown. The simulation results show the high pressure and high efficiency operation of the system under study in different operating conditions.

Decoupled MPC Power Balancing Strategy for Coupled Inductor Flying Capacitor DC–DC Converter

A decoupled model predictive control (MPC) power balancing strategy for a coupled inductor-based flying capacitor DC–DC converter (FCDC) is a proposed to solve the power imbalance caused by the parameter differences in the coupled inductor. The decoupled mathematical model of coupled inductor FCDC is firstly derived by analyzing the converter operation state under various modes. On this basis, the control relationship between inductor current and flying capacitor (FC) voltage is redefined and an MPC power balance strategy based on the inductor current with single-step optimization is proposed. The proposed MPC strategy not only achieves decoupled power balancing control but also solves multi-objective dynamic optimization control of the inductor current and FC voltage, greatly reducing the computation load. A detailed theoretical analysis of the proposed strategy is presented and the balancing performance is effectively verified through the experiments.

Fault-tolerant control against actuator faults based on extended state observer for quadrotor UAV

Abstract A model predictive control (MPC) strategy is devised to handle the issue of multi-actuators partial failure faults of quadrotor vehicles. Firstly, considering a quadrotor system with actuator partial failure faults and unknown disturbances, the quadrotor dynamics model is analyzed and established. Then, the MPC attitude fault-tolerant controller is devised to transform the issue of controlling the attitude angle of a quadrotor into a quadratic programming solution problem, and the extended state observer (ESO) is devised to evaluate the faults and perturbations, which highly and greatly improves the system’s suppression capability against disturbances. Finally, numerical simulation experiments demonstrate the scheme’s fault-tolerance to actuator faults and its ability to suppress unknown perturbations, while the results of semi-physical simulation experiments also prove that the method is effective and feasible.

Model predictive control of wakes for wind farm power tracking

In this paper, a model predictive control scheme for wind farms is presented. Our approach considers wake dynamics including their influence on local wind conditions and allows the tracking of a given power reference. In detail, a Gaussian wake model is used in combination with observation points that carry wind condition information. This allows the estimation of the rotor effective wind speeds at downstream turbines, based on which we deduce their power output. Through different approximation methods, the associated finite horizon nonlinear optimization problem is reformulated in a mixed-integer quadratically-constrained quadratic program fashion. By solving the reformulated problem online, optimal yaw angles and axial induction factors are found. Closed-loop simulations indicate good power tracking capabilities over a wide range of power setpoints while distributing wind turbine infeed evenly among all units. Additionally, the simulation results underline real time capabilities of our approach.

Combined Iterative Learning and Model Predictive Control Scheme for Nonlinear Systems

Combined Iterative Learning and Model Predictive Control Scheme for Nonlinear Systems

Model Predictive Control Strategy for DAB-LLC Hybrid Bidirectional Converter Based on Power Distribution Balance

Model Predictive Control Strategy for DAB-LLC Hybrid Bidirectional Converter Based on Power Distribution Balance

Privacy-preserving federated machine learning modeling and predictive control of heterogeneous nonlinear systems

Privacy preservation in data-driven modeling of a heterogeneous nonlinear system with multiple subsystems has become vitally important since communication data is vulnerable to cyber-attacks. This work develops a federated learning (FL) modeling and model predictive control (MPC) method for heterogeneous nonlinear systems with multiple subsystems to address privacy preservation and heterogeneity issues. The FL framework with two different neural network structures is developed to aggregate the submodels trained locally for the subsystems into a global model without sharing the local data with each other. Subsequently, a theoretical bound on the generalization error of the FL models is established using information theory. The closed-loop stability criteria of heterogeneous nonlinear systems under the FL-based MPC scheme are developed in an information-theoretical manner. Finally, a chemical process network is applied to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed FL modeling and FL-based MPC methods.

Enhanced gas-lift system operation using LPV nonlinear model predictive control

In this work, we propose a novel Linear Parameter Varying (LPV) Model Predictive Control (MPC) scheme for oil production maximisation in wells operated with gas-lift systems. The control of a gas-lift system poses several engineering challenges, including the nonlinear nature of its behaviour and different kinds of process constraints. Recent studies indicate that MPC strategies stand out as promising solutions to address many of these issues — with results already published for gas-lift applications. However, when nonlinear models are used, the corresponding nonlinear MPC (NMPC) algorithms entail substantial computational costs, potentially complicating the feasibility of (real-time) embedded implementation. Furthermore, certain complexities in standard gas-lift system representations hinder the use of typical NMPC solvers (e.g. CasADi), thus making approximation-based schemes unavoidable. Accordingly, we propose an LPV formulation to describe the gas-lift system that ensures closed-loop stability and recursive feasibility when implemented as a model for MPC. In this regard, we synthesise an LPV MPC scheme and compare it to an NMPC through CasADi. Several realistic nonlinear numerical simulations are presented and our results indicate that the proposed LPV MPC scheme, in addition to being three times faster (in average), achieved an increase in the total amount of produced oil when compared to an NMPC via CasADi. Then, aiming to maximise oil production rate, we introduce a modified version of the LPV MPC approach, resulting in an increase in the total amount of produced oil of approximately 3% in the studied scenario, when compared to the unmodified LPV MPC scheme.

A centralized EMPC scheme for PV-powered alkaline electrolyzer

Photovoltaic (PV)-powered alkaline electrolyzer system (PVPAES) is an advanced technique to convert the off-grid and intermittent PV-based solar energy into storable and transportable electrolyzer-based hydrogen energy with zero carbon emissions. However, it is difficult to realize the coordinated control of the off-grid PV module and the alkaline electrolyzer, due to the multiple timescale dynamics. To address this challenge, the PVPAES is decomposed into the slow part and fast part based on the dynamic time scale. Exploiting the decomposed subsystems, the slow one is assumed to be managed well by the auxiliary controller. For the fast one, a centralized economic model predictive control (CEMPC) scheme is constituted. This CEMPC integrates the energy management system and local feedback control into a single optimal control framework. A mathematical model of the PVPAES is established, on the basis of which the CEMPC directly adopts the economic indices as the cost function to realize the flexible power point tracking, power supply-demand balance, and dynamic economic optimization. Moreover, the inherent strong nonlinearity of PVPAES results in the nonconvex mixed-integer nonlinear programming optimization problem in the CEMPC. The exhaustive search algorithm utilizing finite converter switching states is adopted to achieve the global economic optimum. The effectiveness of the proposed CEMPC controller is illustrated through simulations under varying irradiance conditions.

Health-conscious optimal control of Li-ion cell using simplified full homogenized macro-scale model

This article presents the optimal charging of a Li-ion cell based on a simplified full homogenized macro-scale (FHM) model. A solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer model is included in the simplified FHM model to quantify cell degradation. With these models, a multi-objective optimal control problem subject to constraints from safety concerns is formulated to achieve health-conscious optimal charging. This constrained optimal control problem is converted to a nonlinear programming problem (NLP). A nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) strategy is adopted by solving the NLP at each sampling time using the pseudo-spectral optimization method. The effect of the input current upper bound on the cell film resistance Rfilm and state of health (SoH) reveals that Rfilm and SoH are more sensitive to input current upper bound at lower values of input current upper bound. Simulation results show that the simplified model and pseudo-spectral method are crucial for reducing the computational load of the model. The proposed algorithm is more efficient in reducing health degradation than the conventional constant current constant voltage (CCCV) charging algorithm since it can explicitly handle the film resistance and capacity as health parameters. Multiple cycle charging simulations revealed that the health-conscious algorithm decreases health degradation and increases battery life.

A long-horizon move-blocking based direct power model predictive control for dynamic enhancement of DC microgrids

This research paper presents a novel long-horizon move-blocking based direct power model predictive control (DPMPC) strategy, uniquely designed to enhance the dynamic performance of boost converters in the grid-connected mode within DC microgrids. A precise dynamic model is developed considering a boost converter connected to a DC-link supplying constant power and resistive loads. To predict the system's dynamic behavior over an extended interval and enhance its performance in the presence of constant power loads, the long-horizon based finite control set model predictive control (FCS-MPC) method is introduced. To address the computational complexity associated with the conventional long-horizon DPMPC approach, a move-blocking (MB) strategy is incorporated into FCS-MPC, reducing the computational burden while improving the dynamic performance of the boost converter. Unlike recent studies that utilize DPMPC with short prediction interval, this paper presents evidence that a longer prediction interval is crucial for maintaining system stable and enhancing the dynamic response and also utilizing MB to make the control implementable in the real-time. The simulation results conducted using MATLAB/Simulink demonstrate the effective performance of the proposed strategy across various operating conditions of the boost converter. Experimental results further validate the strategy's capability to enhance the dynamic performance of the boost converter. Importantly, the experimental findings confirm the feasibility of implementing the proposed long-horizon move-blocking DPMPC strategy in real-time applications.

Offset-Free Koopman Model Predictive Control of Thermal Comfort Regulation for a Variable Refrigerant Flow-Dedicated Outdoor Air System-Combined System

Abstract Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system has been an appealing solution of air conditioning for residential and commercial buildings, due to its flexibility and cost effectiveness, while lack of ventilation capability is a major drawback. Incorporation of dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) is a typical practice. However, good coordination between DOAS and VRF is critical for achieving desired thermal comfort is challenging due to the possible complexity of mixed sensible and latent heat exchanges. In this paper, to handle the nonlinear dynamic characteristics of VRF-DOAS system, we propose an offset-free Koopman model predictive control (MPC) strategy for thermal comfort regulation, in which the MPC design is computationally more efficient due to the convex problem formulation and the use of reduced-order Koopman models, and the offset-free MPC structure enhances the robustness to model uncertainties and unmeasured disturbances. A control-oriented model is obtained by hybridizing the first-principle and data-driven modeling approach. The proposed controls strategy is evaluated with a Modelica simulation model of a VRF-DOAS system. A Dymola-Python cosimulation platform is developed via the functional mockup interface (FMI), for which the MPC algorithms are implemented in Python. Simulation results show significantly better performance of the offset-free Koopman MPC in thermal comfort regulation.

Experimental implementation of an emission-aware prosumer with online flexibility quantification and provision

Active building energy management can facilitate the development of low-carbon buildings and support flexible operations of future smart cities, thanks to advancements in digitalization To fully leverage these benefits, it is essential to integrate diverse objectives and engage multiple stakeholders. However, a gap remains in comprehensive field insights into emission reduction, flexibility provision, and user impacts. This study examined how a real occupied building, with all its energy assets, could function as an emission-aware prosumer with flexible energy consumption. An existing building energy management system was enhanced by integrating a model predictive control strategy. The setup reduced equivalent carbon emissions from electricity imports and provided flexibility to the energy system. The experimental results indicate an emission reduction of 12.5% compared to a rule-based controller that maximized PV self-consumption. In addition, a minimal flexibility provision experiment was demonstrated with a locally emulated distribution system operator. The results suggest that flexibility was provided without the risk of rebound effects, as flexibility was quantified and communicated to the system operator in advance. This study demonstrates the feasibility of low-carbon buildings and their support for flexible energy systems, while also identifying and discussing practical scalability challenges.

Innovative model predictive control for HVDC: circulating current mitigation and fault resilience in Modular Multilevel converters

This study presents an advanced Model Predictive Control (MPC) technique designed to mitigate Circulating Current (CC) in HVDC systems equipped with Modular Multilevel Converters (MMC). This MPC strategy eliminates the need for traditional PI regulators and pulse width modulation, improving system dynamics and control accuracy. It excels in managing output currents and mitigating voltage fluctuations in sub-module capacitors. Moreover, the paper introduces a novel communication-free Fault Ride-Through (FRT) method that makes a DC chopper redundant, enabling rapid recovery from disturbances. To reduce the computational burden of standard MPC algorithms, an aggregated MMC model is proposed, significantly decreasing the computational complexity. Simulation studies validate the new MPC algorithm’s capability in regulating AC side current, reducing CC, and ensuring capacitor voltage stability under varying conditions. The findings indicate that the proposed MPC controller outperforms traditional PI and PR-based methods, offering enhanced dynamic response, decreased steady-state error, and lowered converter losses, which contribute to smoother DC link voltages. Future research will focus on system scalability, renewable energy integration, and empirical validation through hardware-in-the-loop testing.