The simulation of distributed-parameter systems, with particular reference to process control problems

Simulator techniques for solving certain partial differential equations, generally occurring in process-control engineering (e.g. heat exchangers), are investigated. Limitations associated with the method of dividing a distributed-parameter system into a series of elements which may be represented by lumped-constant electrical networks are discussed, and an alternative method of simulation is suggested which overcomes these limitations. To illustrate the advantages of this alternative technique two practical distributed-parameter systems are simulated. In the first, which is a heat exchanger, the technique suggested affords a great saving in apparatus for a given accuracy. The second example considered is a non-linear distributed-parameter system for which previous methods of simulation are impracticable because of the amount of apparatus involved.