Interactive Software and Data Structure for Multivariable Control System Design

Abstract

A nuclear generating unit is a coupled multivariable dynamic system consisting of the reactor, primary heat-transport system, boilers, turbine-generator, and feedwater train. Future unit controllers will be required to take greater account of dynamic interaction, and multivariable methods are the basis for design of such systems. An interactive computer- aided design capability for multivariable control is being developed at CRNL, based on modern concepts of program and data structuring. The design system automatically supports a large data base of matrix and polynomial data, describing the control system, and provides a calculator-like user interface. This organization facilitates additions and changes to computing functions and allows each new function to benefit from those already implemented. The data structure and control sub- routines are now complete, and control design algorithms are being developed.