Implementation of generalized predictive controller for linear systems using bit-streams

Bit-stream based control technique uses a uniformly weighted single bit streams to control a system and is a new approach for controller design. This method is ideally suited for field programmable gate array (FPGA) or application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) implementation and offers numerous advantages due to its inherent parallel nature. The present paper proposes the design of bit-stream based generalized predictive controller for linear systems by interconnecting various bit-stream building blocks. The performance of the bit-stream based GPC is illustrated via simulations using Mentor Graphics ModelSim and compared to the results from an ideal GPC implemented using Matlab/Simulink considering examples of a d.c. servo system and a thermal system. Results of the simulation demonstrate that the performance of the bit-stream based GPC matches well with the Simulink based controller and can be a viable alternative to standard method of digital controller implementation.