Real-Time Optimisation of Closed-Loop Processes Using Transient Measurements

Real-time optimisation (RTO) has the ability to boost the performance of a process whilst satisfy- ing a set of constraints by using process measurements to refine the model-based optimal operating conditions towards plant optimality. Modifier adaptation (MA) is a methodology of RTO which can find the optimal operating point of a process even in the presence of plant-model mismatch. This work presents an extension to MA through the combination of two established frameworks. This new combined framework allows for the optimisation of a controlled process using transient measurements whilst using a steady-state open-loop model. In conjunction, an investigation into model-based gradient estimation methods of the controlled process using the open-loop model was undertaken and a correction has been proposed, which allows for the use of limited controller information in gradient estimation using the neighbouring extremals method.