Computers & Chemical Engineering, Vol.21, No.11, 1291-1310, 1997
A Generic Framework for an Online Scheduling and Control-System in Batch Process Management
On-line scheduling and control systems, which dynamically adjust production schedules according to changes in scheduling conditions, are a vital issue in modern batch processes because of their dynamic behavior and the unpredictable market situation. In this paper, we propose a generic on-line scheduling and control framework to handle a wide variety of uncertainties by utilizing proven external scheduling algorithms. The framework provides fundamental mechanisms to define schedule modification timing and a modification space according to the changes of scheduling conditions, and dynamically modifies a schedule to minimize the effect of the changes by using adequate scheduling algorithms for each situation. The basic structure and mechanisms of the framework are described. Performance of the framework against typical fluctuations in ordinary batch process operations is demonstrated via simulation experiments with a multiproduct batch plant.