A three-dimensional finite element model for the control of certain non-linear bioreactors

This paper deals with the dynamics of non-linear distributed parameter fixe d-bed bioreactors. The model consists of a pair of non-linear partial diffe rential (evolution) equations. The true spatially three-dimensional situati on is considered instead of the usual one-dimensional approximation. This e nables one to take into account the effects of flow profiles and the true l ocation of the measurement transducer. The (output) evolution of the corres ponding open-loop control system is simulated. Furthermore, the associated closed-loop system with respect to the relevant output function is consider ed. Especially, the asymptotic output tracking is found to be successful by applying the usual process based on the-state feedback linearization. Copy right (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.