A multivariable laboratory process with an adjustable zero

Abstract

A novel multivariable laboratory process that consists of four interconnected water tanks is presented. The linearized dynamics of the system have a multivariable zero that is possible to move along the real axis by changing a valve. The zero can be placed in both the left and the right half-plane. In this way the quadruple-tank process is ideal for illustrating many concepts in multivariable control, particularly performance limitations due to multivariable right half-plane zeros. Accurate models are derived from both physical and experimental data and multi-loop control is illustrated.