TE Control Problem Challenge

What is this?

This is an open-loop(i.e. not controlled) dynamic simulation of a hypothetical chemical process. The model is fairly self-explanatory but I suggest finding the original paper for more information. The model was initially published by Downs and Vogel in the mid-90s. No doubt, a copy of this paper is floating around somehwere on the 'net. Their abstract was as follows:

  
        This paper describes a model of an industrial chemical process for the purpose. of developing,
        studying and evaluating process control technology. This process is well suited for a wide variety of
        studies including both plant-wide control and multivariable control problems. It consists of a reactor/
        separator/recycle arrangement involving two simultaneous gas-liquid exothermic reactions of the
        following form:

        A(g) + C(g) + D(g) -> G(liq), Product 1,
        A(g) + C(g) + E(g) -> H(liq), Product 2.

        Two additional byproduct reactions also occur. The process has 12 valves available for manipulation and
        41 measurements available for monitoring or control. The process equipment, operating objectives, process control 
        objectives and process disturbances are described. A set of FORTRAN subroutines which simulate the process 
        are available upon request.

This model has been the focus of much study since then and it's a fun little thing to play around with. There are numerous versions of this model in various forms, but I haven't come across a version that easily accessible without MATLAB or the like. The version presented here is based on a C translation and update of the original FORTRAN code available at Larry Ricker's page. Refer to the Updated TE Code (January 23, 2015)

How does this work?

One approach is to meticulously translate the C/FORTRAN code in Javascript. That is not the approach here. Basically, this code works as follows:

Compile the original code (and removing all references to SIMULINK/MATLAB) with Emscripten to generate a WASM file
Create a primitive UI with PIXI JS
Use JS to directly manipulate the input arrays and variables when running the WASM file
Profit!

Can I see the code?

Sure, nothing is obfuscated. Right and view-source. Alternatively, you can check out the repo here. This is code is of awful quality, maybe someday I will clean it up

Why did you do X and not Y? I have many, many questions!

What can I actually do right now?

You can directly affect all 12 of the orignal MVs (Manipulated Variables) by moving the sliders.
You can issue a random disturbance and try to respond to it manually.
You can accelerate the time step so everything happens much much faster than real time and slow down when neccessary.

What is the X Table at the bottom

That is a table of mol. fractions corresponding to each analyzer given in the PFD.

The Random disturbance seems to be not affecting anything?

The Random disturbances are intentionally slow. Try increasing the real-time factor and you will see the swing.

Why did you use a naive Euler method to integrate?

It works for most cases, and is very simple.

Where are the controllers? I want to add control loops?

I'll get to it eventually. Right now, you can pretend to be an operator when all hell is breaking loose on a lightly staffed New Year's Eve.

Why does this look like it was made in 1996?
- Good question. Unstoppable force meets an immovable object, I guess.
- Alternatively, you can help improve it!

You haven't answered my question!

Contact me via <kpatvt@gmail.com>. I'll try to respond.

Can I use this code for ...

Use the code however you wish (MIT License).