BATCH PROCESS CONTROL USING EXPERT SYSTEMS

Batch process control is improved by defining a step endpoint condition in an expert system knowledge base; using the expert system to monitor for the occurrence of the endpoint in the batch process; and triggering a change in a batch process condition when the endpoint is found. Preferably, the expert system and the batch process condition change are implemented as modules which execute under control of timing and sequencing functions in a supervisory control system, and the change affects a setpoint (or other control objective) in a continuous control system. Multiple instances of modular expert systems allow parallel process units to be easily controlled.