Nonlinear structure identification of chemical processes

In this paper a deterministic suitability measure is introduced that quantifies the capability of a particular model class to capture the control relevant I/O-behavior of a nonlinear system. This suitability measure can be used for the purpose of model structure selection prior to the actual parameter identification. Important properties of this suitability measure are discussed and an attractive approach for its numerical computation based on convex optimization is outlined. The suitability measure is exemplary used to select an appropriate model structure for a simple continuous stirred tank reactor.