Object-oriented chemical process modelling in Omola

Abstract

In this paper we discuss an object-oriented approach to modelling of chemical processes with control systems in the modelling language Omola. The basic elements in object-oriented modelling methodology in Omola are modularization, model encapsulation, hierarchical decomposition, parameterization and inheritance. Models have an internal structure of model components, like terminals, parameters and behaviour descriptions. The model behavior can be described with equations or as a connected structure of submodels. Models and model components are represented as objects in single inheritance object class hierarchies. Chemical processes and control systems can be described with the same basic concepts. The object-oriented model representation is implemented in the Omola simulation environment called OmSim. An exothermic tank reactor example is successfully modeled and simulated in the paper. Model reuse and model development are tasks that are facilitated in object-oriented modelling with Omola.