Model Predictive Control Toolbox vs. Epicor Connected Process Control

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.

Epicor Connected Process Control offers an intuitive software solution designed to create and manage digital work instructions while maintaining strict process control, effectively minimizing the chances of errors in operations. By integrating IoT devices, it captures comprehensive time studies and detailed process data, including images, at the task level, providing unprecedented real-time visibility and quality oversight. The eFlex system is versatile enough to accommodate countless product variations and thousands of components, catering to both component-based and model-based manufacturers alike. Furthermore, work instructions seamlessly connect to the Bill of Materials, guaranteeing that products are assembled correctly every time, even when modifications occur during production. This advanced system intelligently adapts to variations in models and components, ensuring that only the relevant work instructions for the current build at the station are presented, enhancing efficiency and accuracy throughout the manufacturing process. In this way, Epicor empowers manufacturers to maintain high standards of quality control while adapting to the dynamic nature of production demands.