A model structure for product quality in processing agro-material for process control purposes

In this paper, a model structure is presented that captures product behavio ur with respect to quality properties. Modelling product quality properties involves nominal (bulk) dynamic behaviour and the variation of these prope rties. Nominal behaviour is modelled using a limited number of basic reacti ons. To deal with the variation the presented model structure is extended w ith a three-step approximation procedure using discretised intervals. The m odel structure is suitable for control purposes and will contribute to clos ing the gap between product specialists and the system and control communit y. The applicability of the model structure and the possibility to describe quality properties is shown with existing models from the literature that show a good fit with the described model structure and by an industrial cas e study on potato storage. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserv ed.