Flexibility analysis and design of linear systems by parametric programming

A new, unified theory and algorithms, based on multiparametric programming techniques, for the solution of flexibility analysis and design optimizatio n problems in linear process systems are presented. They are used for the f lexibility test and index problems in systems with deterministic parameters , and for the stochastic and expected stochastic flexibility evaluation pro blems in systems with stochastic parameters. They are computationally effic ient and give the explicit dependence of various flexibility metrics on the values of the continous design variables. The latter feature enables the e asy and efficient comparison of design alternatives. It also allows for the compact formulation of design optimization problems that can be solved par ametrically to yield the exact algebraic form of the trade-off curve of eco nomics against flexibility. Key features of the proposed approach are demon strated through both mathematical and process examples.