A hierarchical MPC scheme for interconnected systems

Abstract: This paper describes a hierarchical control scheme for interconnected systems. The higher layer of the control structure is designed with robust Model Predictive Control (MPC) based on a reduced order dynamic model of the overall system and is aimed at optimizing long-term performance, while at the lower layer local regulators acting at a higher frequency are designed for the full order models of the subsystems to refine the control action. A simulation experiment concerning the control of the temperature inside a building is reported to witness the potentialities of the proposed approach.