On the Use of Controller Parametrization in the Optimal Design of Dynamically Operable Plants

This paper explores some issues pertaining to the use of Q-parametrization in the optimal design of dynamically operable plants. An optimization based plant design formulation in which a discrete-time implementation of the controller parametrization is embedded, is described. Its application is demonstrated through a reactor case study in which the resulting design is compared against that obtained using PI control. Differences in results obtained are discussed and related to the design problem formulation. The impact of other assumptions, such as the disturbance dynamics, is also discussed.