Education History

Overview

My research interests focus on control and optimization of process systems by peak-seeking algorithms and control and optimization of supply chain management.

A more detailed description of my current and future work is given below.

Real-Time Optimization by Peak Seeking Control

The proposed online optimization technique is applied to systems which are known to have an optimal operating point. The novel adaptive optimization algorithm is based on models which are used to track changing optimal points. The optimization algorithm behaves as a stand-alone module using existing simulations to gather information and adaptively controls the process without manipulating the simulation code. The optimizer uses a second order approximation to a high order system and takes a set of modified equality constraints constructed so that they have the same geometric characteristics of the true steady-state behavior of the process. The module employs the dynamic model to obtain a steady-state model. The steady-state model is then used to find the optimal input to the process. The optimum point obtained by the optimizer is tracked throughout process operation.
Advantages of this adaptive algorithm over other traditional optimization approaches include: 1) it uses current process models, 2) it can handle multiple objective functions, 3) it only applies a subset of all process states, 4) it is self-learning, and, 5) it is appropriate for steady-state or dynamic models.
This work presents the technique applied to single-input single-output processes with multiple-input multiple-output systems being the logical step forward. Results are provided for two case studies: 1) optimization of the production of candida utilis in a bioreactor, and, 2) optimization of the production of silicon in a reactor.

Presentations
Dozal-Mejorada, E.J.; Garcia-Osorio, V.; and Ydstie, B.E. "Real Time Optimization of Convex Operators by Extremum Seeking Control," AIChE National Meeting, Austin, TX. November 7-12, 2004.

Gabriel, F.; Xiaoyun, Q.; Harell, D.; El-Halwagi, M. and Dozal-Mejorada, E.J. "Resource Conservation Targeting Techniques Using Componentless Design Approach," AIChE Spring National Meeting, New Orleans, LA. March 31, 2003.

Dozal-Mejorada, E.J. "Pollution Prevention Through Process Integration," Texas A&M University Student Research Week, College Station, TX. March 2003.

Dozal-Mejorada, E.J. "Characterization of Rapid Thermally Annealed Nickel Silicide Formation by Micro-Raman Spectroscopy and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy," Texas A&M University Student Research Week, College Station, TX. March 2001.

Dozal-Mejorada, E.J.; Neil, T.; Zhao, J.; Ballast, L.K.; Jones, C.; and Hossain, T.Z. "The Uniformity and Chemical Composition of CoSi Thin Films Characterized by Scanning Micro-Raman Spectroscopy and Scanning Secondary Ion Imaging," Scanning 2000, San Antonio, TX. May 12, 2000.