An input-output linearizing control strategy with uncertainty estimation and its application to distillation columns control

In this paper, a linearization feedback adaptive control structure is described. This structure yields high quality regulation of the output error in the face of uncertainties and external disturbances. The overall control system consists of three elements-a nominal input-output linearization compensator, a state observer and an uncertainty estimator-which provides the adaptive part of the control structure. The performance of this control structure is demonstrated on a distillation column via numerical simulations.