Over the past three decades, advanced control has evolved from deviations from classical PID controllers to computer-based technologies. It encompasses feedforward, multivariable, and optimal control. Advanced Process Control (APC) tools interface with SCADA systems, tracking and analyzing data to diagnose issues. To be classified as advanced, a control configuration must utilize multiple measurements, drive several final control elements, involve process relationships, optimize operations with constraint control, address variable interactions, and employ calculations and models beyond SCADA capabilities. The associated models must provide information for predicting outcomes when process conditions change, encompassing mathematical or statistical descriptions.
(Sources: ADVANCED PROCESS CONTROL, Mark J. Willis & Ming T. Tham & Inst Tools)