Multidisciplinary design optimization of an accumulator for a large elasticity range of flexible webs

¹ Centre d’Innovation et de Transfert Technologique (CITT), University of Strasbourg, 17 rue du Maréchal Lefebvre, 67100 Strasbourg, France
² Laboratoire de Génie de la Conception INSA Strasbourg, 24 boulevard de la Victoire, 67084 Strasbourg, France
³ Laboratoire de Laboratoire de Physique et Mécanique Textiles, ENSISA, 11 rue Alfred Werner, 68093 Mulhouse, France

^a Corresponding author : knittel@unistra.fr

Received: 20 September 2010
Accepted: 22 November 2010

Abstract

This paper concerns the optimization of an accumulator used in an industrial elastic web processing plant (paper, fabric, polymer, metal ...). A nonlinear model of an industrial accumulator is first detailed which enables to deduce a linear model. These models are derived from the physical laws describing web tension and velocity dynamics in each web span. The effects of time-varying rheological and mechanical parameters, such as web Young modulus, web length and rolls inertia, on accumulator dynamics and performances are analyzed. The second part presents several optimizations of industrial PI controllers using evolutionary algorithm for a realistic non-linear model, in conjunction with the controllers interpolation strategy. Finally, simulations made in the Matlab/Simulink software environment show performances improvements compared to hand tuned controllers.