Neuro-fuzzy predictive control for nonlinear application

Aiming at the unsatisfactory dynamic performances of conventional model predictive control (MPC) in a highly nonlinear process, a scheme employed the fuzzy neural network to realize the nonlinear process is proposed. The neuro-fuzzy predictor has the capability of achieving high predictive accuracy due to its nonlinear mapping and interpolation features, and adaptively updating network parameters by a learning procedure to reduce the model errors caused by changes of the process under control. To cope with the difficult problem of nonlinear optimization, Pepanaqi method was applied to search the optimal or suboptimal solution. Comparisons were made among the objective function values of alternatives in initial space. The search was then confined to shrink the smaller region according to results of comparisons. The convergent point was finally approached to be considered as the optimal or suboptimal solution. Experimental results of the neuro-fuzzy predictive control for drier application reveal that the proposed control scheme has less tracking errors and can smooth control actions, which is applicable to changes of drying condition.