A feedback linearization GPC control strategy for a solar furnace

This paper addresses the temperature control problem in a solar furnace. In particular, a feedback linearization generalized predictive control strategy is presented with the aim of improving the performance in the reference tracking and in the rejection of disturbances (represented by the variation of the input energy provided by the Sun, mainly because of passing clouds and the solar daily cycle). Physical and security constraints are taken into account in the optimization problem. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the methodology. © 2012 AACC American Automatic Control Council).