Dynamic optimal operational control for complex systems with uncertain external loop disturbances

In this article, a two‐layer control strategy is proposed for industrial processes where loop controllers are difficult to change. The upper layer performs the determination of the target value and the dynamic adjustment of the set points, while the lower layer realizes the tracking control of loop outputs. To optimize the performance index, observers are designed to estimate those uncertain external disturbances and a new set points adjuster is designed to minimize the influence of disturbances on the overall performance. It is noted that neither the loop structure nor the loop parameters are changed in the operational control. Finally, a simulation on coke oven gas system is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of this method.