01.10.2017
15 minutes of reading
Special issue: Control and Optimization of Complex Systems
It is commonly accepted that the continuous increase in computer performance, combined with the progress of mathematical algorithms, has led to unprecedented developments in the numerical simulation of complex physical phenomena. But these enhanced computing capabilities have also revolutionized our approach to complex systems, enabling us to optimize and command them and, ultimately, to better influence the way equipment is operated and managed.
This issue, dedicated to “Optimization and command of complex systems”, provides a non-exhaustive overview of such IFPEN’s research activities for applications in the field of energy: floating offshore wind turbines, reservoir management, chemical engineering processes, the operation of engines and energy recovery.
Lastly, let’s not forget that optimization techniques are crucial for handling the huge amounts of data derived from experimental measurements, numerical calculations and computing. This opens the way to another of IFPEN’s fundamental research themes: the optimal processing of massive data flows.
I hope you enjoy reading this issue.
Grégoire Allaire, Chairman of IFPEN's Scientific Board
The control of floating platforms for offshore wind turbines: being active reduces fatigue
The fatigue resistance of floating offshore wind turbines is significantly affected by the wave forces to which their supporting platforms are exposed. Passive
Exhaust gas heat: optimal recovery through supervision and control
Recovering heat from exhaust gases using the Rankine thermodynamic cyclea is one of the avenues being explored to reduce the energy consumption of IC engines.
Optimized placements for long lasting resources
In the face of declining oil and gas reserves, increasing the productivity of oil fields has become a technological challenge of the utmost importance. Accordingly, well positio
Optimized design of processes: enhanced efficiency, even with ethanol
The optimized design of processes is a complex but promising approach in terms of the expected benefits for the efficiency of industrial systems and their operating performance.
Floating wind turbine: increasing reliability in an “ocean of possibilities”
The optimal design of mechanical structures is hampered by the imperfect knowledge of the environmental conditions under which they will operate. The systematic incorporation of the res
Energy in vehicles: we’ve got it under control!
In hybrid vehicles, onboard algorithms are aimed at splitting power between the various energy sources in order to minimize fuel consumption and/or pollutant emissions.