Multivariable control of a distillation column by exact input-output linearization

Exact input-output linearization was applied to multivariable control of a distillation column. A four-input four-output system was transformed to four SISO systems by input-output linearization based on a simplified framework of the column. A control system was designed for the linearized four SISO systems, accounting for the effect of model mismatch. The performances of the control system were examined with simulation of a methanol-water distillation column. The control system by input-output linearization exhibited better performance than the conventional multi-loop control systems. These properties were evident under large scaled disturbances. Original is an abstract.