Test a process and generate a model and control

The basic steps to test a process and generate a model are:

1. Select the MPC module.

   • If DeltaV Predict is opened in context from Control Studio or DeltaV Explorer, the MPC module appears at the top level in the Model List.
   • If DeltaV Predict is opened from the Start menu, click File → Select Block and browse for the module.

2. Put the downstream blocks in the correct mode.

   • Click the MPC button in the Control area to put the downstream blocks in the correct mode (Remote Cascade or Cascade depending upon the connection). (Notice that the actual mode of the MPC function block changes from IMAN to MAN.)

3. Set up and run the test.

   • Verify that all loops are properly tuned, and that the transmitters and valves that provide the inputs and use the outputs of the MPC block are working correctly. In the Test Process area, enter the values for Step SizeTime to Steady State, and Cycles, and then click the Test button. The progression bar shows the portion of the test that is complete and the estimated time remaining to complete the test is shown below the progression bar. To change a manipulated parameter value during testing, select the parameter from the parameter list, right-click, and then select Properties. To stop a test, click the Abort button.

4. Select the data.

   • If you are running a test, a green area automatically covers the portion of the trend associated with the test beginning and end times.
   • If you are not running a test, drag the green bars over the data that you wish to use to create the model and control.
   • You can also create a model from data stored in a valid MPC data file format. for more information. To use a data file, select File → Autogenerate From File and then browse to the desired data file.

5. Generate a model and control.

   • Click Autogenerate. (See note below.) The model and control is generated from the data and automatically assigned to the MPC block. (Download the controller to put the model online.)
   • In Expert mode, click Create Model if you only want to create the model from the selected data. The model is not assigned to the block and no control is generated. To create a model and/or control from data stored in a valid MPC data file, select the appropriate option from the File menu.
     Note

     Be sure that the module containing the MPC function block is not open in Control Studio when you click Autogenerate because the block is updated when the model is being generated.