Model-free adaptive nonlinear control of the absorption refrigeration system

Based on the model-free adaptive control (MFAC) theory, the temperature tracking control problem of single-effect LiBr/H2O absorption chiller is explored. Due to the complex nonlinearity and strong coupling characteristics of the absorption refrigeration system, model-free adaptive control strategy is designed for its temperature tracking control. Nevertheless, the traditional model-free adaptive control has a slow tracking speed and poor denoising ability. In order to improve its control effect, output error rate is added to the objective function and new control laws of model-free adaptive control with output error rate (MFAC-OER) have been derived through an exhaustive convergence and stability analysis. The input information and output information of the absorption refrigeration system, namely the hot water pump frequency and chilled water outlet water temperature, are combined. The data model of the absorption refrigeration system is subsequently deduced using a compact format dynamic linearization method. Next, based on the single-effect absorption chiller experimental platform in our laboratory, its sixth-order dynamic model is built. Finally, the effectiveness and practicability of the improved control strategy are illustrated by numerical simulations and experimental operating data from our laboratory as well as by the dynamical model of the absorption chiller.