A Flexible Framework and Model Library for Process Simulation, Optimization and Control

Abstract A new framework for optimizing process flowsheets has been developed, which enables a greater degree of flexibility and automation to facilitate the development of hierarchical models suitable for rigorous optimization and control problems under both steady-state and dynamic operating conditions. A library of models for common process unit operations has been developed along with the framework to allow rapid development of flowsheets, with a focus on adaptability and extensibility to allow users to extend and apply these models to novel processes and configurations. This paper presents the development of the framework and model library which support conceptual design, process design/integration, and dynamic optimization/control.