Moving-horizon method for integrating scheduling and control

Online integration of scheduling and control is crucial to cope with process uncertainties. We propose a new online integrated method for sequential batch processes, where the integrated problem is solved to determine controller references rather than process inputs. To achieve the goal of computational efficiency and rescheduling stability, a rolling horizon approach is developed. A reduced integrated problem in a re-solving horizon is formulated, which can be solved efficiently online. Solving the reduced problem only changes a small part of the initial solution, guaranteeing rescheduling stability. The integrated method is demonstrated in a simulated case study.