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

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 ?-valerolactone.

Automated summary

Limitations in process design, optimization, and control when using specific process simulators can be overcome by integrating different software tools. This paper provides a summary and categorization of existing research on the application of multi-software engineering in the chemical industry, focusing on software connections. The discussion covers CAPE-OPEN, COM, OPC, and native integration, serving as a guide for selecting the most suitable software combination and connection. The proposed hybrid systems, such as linking Aspen HYSYS with MATLAB, can handle complex user-defined problems and have various applications.