System considerations in computer control of a semicontinuous chemical process

Control systems incorporating a digital control computer can provide improved process performance but are more difficult to design than conventional systems. After determination that a particular process may warrant use of a digital control computer, a detailed study should be carried out to specify the system functions and to estimate its cost and benefits. This study involves establishing process boundaries, examination of process objectives and economics, development of quantitative relationships between process variables, invention of a system, and its evaluation.