Model Predictive Control Toolbox vs. COLUMBO

The Model Predictive Control Toolbox™ provides an extensive array of functions, an easy-to-use app, Simulink® blocks, and useful reference examples to streamline the development of model predictive control (MPC) systems. It effectively addresses linear problems by allowing the development of implicit, explicit, adaptive, and gain-scheduled MPC approaches. For more intricate nonlinear situations, users can implement both single-stage and multi-stage nonlinear MPC. Moreover, this toolbox comes equipped with deployable optimization solvers and allows for the incorporation of custom solvers as needed. Users can evaluate the performance of their controllers through closed-loop simulations within MATLAB® and Simulink environments. In the context of automated driving, the toolbox offers blocks and examples that comply with MISRA C® and ISO 26262 standards, which facilitates the rapid start of projects related to lane keeping assistance, path planning, path following, and adaptive cruise control. It enables the design of implicit, gain-scheduled, and adaptive MPC controllers that can solve quadratic programming (QP) problems while also facilitating the generation of explicit MPC controllers based on implicit designs. Furthermore, the toolbox accommodates discrete control set MPC for addressing mixed-integer QP challenges, thus expanding its versatility for various control systems. With its rich set of features, the toolbox guarantees that both beginners and seasoned professionals can successfully apply advanced control strategies in their projects. This versatility ensures that users across multiple domains can find relevant applications for their specific needs.

A universal multivariable optimizer, designed for closed-loop systems, aims to improve the performance and quality of Model Predictive Control (MPC) systems. This optimizer harnesses data from Excel files derived from Dynamic Matrix Control (DMC) by Aspen Tech, Robust Model Predictive Control Technology (RMPCT) from Honeywell, or Predict Pro from Emerson, facilitating the development and fine-tuning of precise models for various multivariable-controller variable (MV-CV) pairs. This cutting-edge optimization solution does away with the need for step tests that are usually required by Aspen Tech and Honeywell, functioning entirely in the time domain to maintain user-friendliness, compactness, and efficiency. As Model Predictive Controls (MPC) often involve numerous dynamic models—sometimes tens or even hundreds—there is a significant risk of utilizing incorrect models. Inaccurate dynamic models in MPCs can introduce bias, which appears as model prediction errors, leading to inconsistencies between expected signals and actual sensor measurements. COLUMBO emerges as a robust tool to bolster the precision of Model Predictive Control (MPC) models, effectively leveraging either open-loop or fully closed-loop data to guarantee peak performance. By tackling the risks associated with errors in dynamic models, COLUMBO not only enhances the reliability of the control system but also contributes to a more efficient operational framework. Ultimately, its implementation is expected to yield substantial advancements in control system effectiveness across various applications.