A LOGIC-BASED MODEL FOR THE ANALYSIS AND OPTIMIZATION OF STEAM-TURBINE NETWORKS

Common practice in the analysis and optimisation of utility networks i nvolves general algorithmic methods which disregard engineering knowle dge and understanding of the system. In this paper an alternative inte lligent model for steam turbine networks is suggested that is based on a set of simple, logic driven rules. These rules originate from the u nderstanding of the turbine system and reflect the preference of the m ost efficient turbines, while accounting for the contradictions over s uch preference trends imposed by the capacity limitations of the hardw are. The principles and applications of the new model are demonstrated for low dimensional systems, for which a handy graphical representati on, the Hardware Composites, can be produced. (C) 1998 Elsevier Scienc e B.V. All rights reserved.