Optimal simulation-based operations planning with quantitative safety constraints

A new two-layer optimization scheme is presented for operating procedure sy nthesis in the presence of quantitative safety path contraints. Layer 1 opt imizes the overall operations time by varying the "operator time: constant" -the time that an operator is applied to the system. Layer 2 performs the p ath-constrained optimization by minimizing the sum-of-squared errors betwee n the current system state vector and a prespecified goal state vector by a pplying the system operators. New system states are calculated using dynami c simulation of the equations describing the system. A detailed example inv olving mixture control of potentially flammable chemicals is described, ill ustrating all aspects of the proposed methodology.