LQG controllers for state-space systems with pure transport delays: Application to hot strip mills (Q1298280)

The design of LQG stochastic optimal tracking and regulating systems is considered for continuous-time systems with different time-delays in different paths. The state equation based controllers for both tracking and regulating systems include a Kalman predictor and state-estimate feedback. A form of the separation principle is utilized for the considered linear systems containing delays in inputs and outputs. The structure of the optimal controller is similar to the one of a Smith predictor. The control of the thickness of strip in rolling mills is then considered. This was the physical problem which motivated the design study. The engineering design issues are explored and it is shown that the controller structure proposed is effective in thickness profile regulation.