Non‐linear predictive generalised minimum variance state‐dependent control

A non‐linear predictive generalised minimum variance control algorithm is introduced for the control of non‐linear discrete‐time state‐dependent multivariable systems. The process model includes two different types of subsystems to provide a variety of means of modelling the system and inferential control of certain outputs is available. A state‐dependent output model is driven from an unstructured non‐linear input subsystem which can include explicit transport‐delays. A multi‐step predictive control cost function is to be minimised involving weighted error, and either absolute or incremental control signal costing terms. Different patterns of a reduced number of future controls can be used to limit the computational demands.