Model predictive control for shape memory alloy cylinder

In this paper, a linear lightweight electric cylinder using SMA (Shape Memory Alloy) is proposed. The spring SMA is used as the actuator to control the position of the cylinder. The cylinder position is controlled by Model Predictive Control algorithm. In this controller, the cylinder model is estimated by online identification algorithm, so that SMA hysteresis effect will be compensated. Experimental results show that the position of the SMA cylinder is able to control precisely by using predictive control strategy though the hysteresis effect existing in this actuator. The performance of the proposed controller is also compared with the conventional PID controller and shown in this paper.