Design of PID-type controllers using multiobjective genetic algorithms

The design of a PID controller is a multiobjective problem. A plant and a set of specifications to be satisfied are given. The designer has to adjust the parameters of the PID controller such that the feedback interconnection of the plant and the controller satisfies the specifications. These specifications are usually competitive and any acceptable solution requires a tradeoff among them. An approach for adjusting the parameters of a PID controller based on multiobjective optimization and genetic algorithms is presented in this paper. The MRCD (multiobjective robust control design) genetic algorithm has been employed. The approach can be easily generalized to design multivariable coupled and decentralized PID loops and has been successfully validated for a large number of experimental cases.