Application of Multi-Software Engineering: A Review and a Kinetic Parameter Identification Case Study

Abstract

Limitations regarding process design, optimization, and control often occur when using particular process simulators. With the implementation of connection methodologies, integrated tools could be made by coupling popular process simulation software with each other or with programming environments. In the current paper, we summarized and categorized the existing research regarding the application of multi-software engineering in the chemical industry, with an emphasis on software connections. CAPE-OPEN, COM, OPC, and native integration were discussed in detail, with the intention to serve as a guide for choosing the most suitable software combination and connection. These hybrid systems can handle complex user-defined problems and can be used for decision support, performing custom unit operations, operator training, process optimization, building control systems, and developing digital twins. In this work, we proposed the use of process simulator Aspen HYSYS linked together with the numeric computing platform MATLAB to solve a reaction kinetic parameter identification problem regarding the production of γ-valerolactone.