Nonlinear Model Predictive Control for Processes with Complex Dynamics: A Parameterisation Approach Using Laguerre Functions

Classical model predictive control (MPC) algorithms need very long horizons when the controlled process has complex dynamics. In particular, the control horizon, which determines the number of decision variables optimised on-line at each sampling instant, is crucial since it significantly affects computational complexity. This work discusses a nonlinear MPC algorithm with on-line trajectory linearisation, which makes it possible to formulate a quadratic optimisation problem, as well as parameterisation using Laguerre functions, which reduces the number of decision variables. Simulation results of classical (not parameterised) MPC algorithms and some strategies with parameterisation are thoroughly compared. It is shown that for a benchmark system the MPC algorithm with on-line linearisation and parameterisation gives very good quality of control, comparable with that possible in classical MPC with long horizons and nonlinear optimisation.