Patent ID: 6721609
Filing Date: 2004-04-13
Classification: G05B

Abstract:
A multi-input/multi-output logic device for use in controlling a process comprising:a plurality of inputs adapted to receive process output signals; a further input having an associated setpoint; a multiplicity of outputs adapted to provide process control signals for controlling the process; a feedback path that connects a selected one of the outputs to the further input; a logic unit configured to produce the multiplicity of outputs using the plurality of inputs and the further input and adapted to adjust the selected output until the further input has reached the associated setpoint; and wherein each of the multiplicity of outputs has an associated constraint limit, and wherein the logic unit comprises a prediction unit adapted to predict a future value for each of the multiplicity of outputs and a comparison unit adapted to compare the future value for each of the multiplicity of outputs to the constraint limit associated with that output to determine whether any one of the outputs, other than the selected output, is going to reach or exceed the associated constraint limit for that output.