Unified approach for minimal output dead time compensation in MIMO processes

This paper presents the development of a unified dead-time compensator for multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) n x n processes with multiple delays. The proposed structure is a generalization of the single-input and single-output (SISO) filtered Smith predictor (FSP) controller, therefore, as in the SISO case it can be used to control stable, integrating, and unstable dead-time processes. MIMO-FSP compensates the minimal output dead time and its tuning is simple and can be performed considering a trade-off between performance and robustness. Several simulation case studies are used in the paper to illustrate the use of the unified approach and also to compare the obtained solutions with some recent published results. Practical experiments using a neonatal intensive care unit prototype are also presented. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.