Predictive control of nonlinear Hammerstein systems and application to PH processes

In this paper, a nonlinear predictive control algorithm based on discrete-time model is developed for nonlinear Hammerstein systems, which is known as NonLinear Hammerstein Predictive Control (NLHPC) algorithm. Following the predictive control strategy, this algorithm uses a Hammerstein model for control prediction. Analysis on the algorithm shows that it not only has good stability and strong robustness, but also possesses integral action itself. The NLHPC, which is implemented on an industrial computer, is applied to the PH control of a pilot plant neutralization process with strong non-linearity. The experimental results illustrate that the NLHPC gives better control performance than the commonly used industrial nonlinear PID (NL-PID) control.