Integrated advanced control blocks in process control systems

Abstract

An advanced control block that implements multiple-input/multiple-output control, such as model predictive control, within a process control system is initiated by creating an initial control block having generic control logic and desired control inputs and control outputs communicatively connected to process outputs and process inputs within a process control routine. A waveform generator within the control block systematically upsets each of the process inputs via the control block outputs using excitation waveforms designed for use in developing a process model. At the same time, a data collection routine collects data indicating the response of each of the process outputs to the waveforms delivered at each of the process inputs. After sufficient data has been collected, a process modeling routine generates a process model from the collected data and a control logic parameter creation routine creates control logic parameters for the control logic from the process model. The control logic parameters and the process model are then downloaded to the control block to complete formation of the advanced control block. Thereafter, the advanced control block is used to provide advanced process control within the process control routine. Likewise, the process model is used to provide simulation of the process or to produce virtual process outputs.