Distributed Computing for Basis Weight Control in Paper Production
Marion A. Keyes, A. Kaya · Birkhäuser Boston eBooks · 1991
This paper deals with controlling bi-directional basis weight of paper by utilizing the control theory and the methods of distributed computing. The paper variance is partitioned into its machine directional (MD), cross directional (CD), and random (R) components, to provide a regulator that yields a uniformly high quality product while minimizing waste. The nonlinear distributed model with interactions between both directions is developed for tractability. The suggested reduced model has interactions limited in extent and has been linearized. Pole placement and LQR technique is used to provide an accurate setting of manipulated variables to control the final process values (basis weight). Also, the multivariate Smith Predictor is used to compensate for the process delays which made it possible to use optimum control design policy for a process with no delays. The implementation by distributed processors are discussed, including their advantages.