Design and simulation of a normalized fuzzy logic controller for the quadruple-tank process

Abstract

Industrial processes include multivariable systems and nonlinearities. These conditions must be effectively controlled to ensure a stable operation. A proportional–integral–derivative controller and other classical control techniques provide simple design tools to designers, but cannot accommodate nonlinearities in industrial processes. In this study, the quadruple-tank process, which is one of the most widely used processes in the chemical industry, was selected as the research object. To examine this process, a fuzzy logic controller, instead of an exact mathematical model, was proposed to ensure the reliability of the experience. A modification was proposed to facilitate the design process. To check the validity of the proposed controller, it was compared with the conventional proportional–integral controller. The former exhibited acceptable performance.