Time varying weighting generalized predictive control (TGPC): an application to a 1.5 MW free turbine engine

This paper describes the control design of a 1.5 MW free turbine with complex load. A nonlinear model of the engine with load has been developed within Simulink from details previously presented by Hill (1987). New predictive control technique, the so-called time varying weighting generalized predictive control (TGPC) is performed using a linearised model to represent the key components in the control design. The performance criteria are specified in terms of the stability margins, bandwidth and desired response of the engine to a severe load disturbance. The substantial change in system dynamics and the constraints on its manipulated variable (i.e. the throttle valve angle) offer a challenge to control engineers. Therefore, nonlinear simulations with parameter changes and full robustness/stability analysis are presented to support the conclusion that the design is robust/stable.