Adaptive model predictive control for linear time varying MIMO systems

A robust, adaptive Model Predictive Control (MPC) approach for asymptotically stable, constrained linear time-varying (LTV) systems with multiple inputs and outputs is proposed. The approach consists of two-steps, carried out on-line with a receding horizon strategy. In the first one, a real-time Set Membership identification algorithm exploits the measured input-output data and the available prior knowledge to build and refine a set of admissible models of the plant (Feasible Parameter Set, FPS). This set is guaranteed to contain also the true system dynamics under the considered working assumptions. In the second step, a robust finite-horizon optimal control problem is formulated and solved. The variation of system dynamics is taken into account by inflating the FPS over the prediction horizon, according to worst-case bounds, assumed a priori, on the parameters' rate of change. The resulting optimal control sequence guarantees that the outputs of all possible plants inside the FPS satisfy the operational constraints, also considering all possible future parameter changes. The main theoretical properties of the proposed approach are demonstrated and the method is showcased in numerical simulations, highlighting the fundamental improvement over previous approaches not designed for LTV systems. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.