Advanced tree‐seed optimization based fractional‐order PID controller design for simplified decoupled industrial tank systems

Abstract

Controlling coupled tank systems is challenging due to interactions between tanks, nonlinear dynamics, time delays, uncertainties, and cross‐coupling effects. The design of effective control strategies to address these complexities while ensuring stability and robust performance is difficult. Hence, this study focuses on presenting an innovative approach to enhance level control in coupled tank systems by employing a fractional‐order proportional‐integral‐derivative (FOPID) controller. The FOPID controller is designed by imposing constraints on the performance metric and closed‐loop gain. Besides, the defined optimization problem is solved by employing a tree seed algorithm. Further, the stability is analyzed graphically using the singular value analysis. The inherent complexities of coupled tank systems are effectively addressed by designing decouplers. The unique characteristics of the tree seed algorithm to navigate complex solution spaces and its effective handling of constraints offer a robust optimization framework. The validity and efficiency of the proposed method are analyzed in a range of simulation experiments conducted on distinct interconnected tank systems. Besides, the stability is verified graphically. The analysis highlights the effectiveness of the control law in handling uncertainties and disturbances. Besides, the proposed method reduces the settling time to around . Through a systematic integration of optimization and comprehensive stability analysis, the study provides a holistic solution for optimizing level control in coupled tank systems.