A Hierarchical Architecture for Optimal Unit Commitment and Control of an Ensemble of Steam Generators

TL;DR

This paper introduces a hierarchical control system for efficiently managing multiple steam generators, combining load optimization, predictive control, and decentralized stabilization to enable flexible, scalable operation.

Contribution

It presents a novel hierarchical architecture integrating load scheduling, robust MPC, and decentralized control for ensemble management of steam generators.

Findings

Effective load allocation and generator scheduling demonstrated.

Robust MPC handles demand variations and ensemble changes.

Simulation results confirm system flexibility and stability.

Abstract

A hierarchical architecture for the optimal management of an ensemble of steam generators is presented. The subsystems are coordinated by a multilayer scheme for jointly sustaining a common load. The high level optimizes the load allocation and the generator schedule, considering activation dynamics by a hybrid model. At the medium level, a robust tube-based model predictive control (MPC) tracks a time-varying demand using a centralized--but aggregate--model, whose order does not scale with the number of subsystems. A nonlinear optimization, at medium level, addresses MPC infeasibility due to abrupt changes of ensemble configuration. Low-level decentralized controllers stabilize the generators. This control scheme enables the dynamical modification of the ensemble configuration and plug and play operations. Simulations demonstrate the approach potentialities.