Intelligent Control in Drying

Despite the available general literature in intelligent control, there is a definite lack of knowledge and know-how in practical applications of intelligent control in drying. This book fills that gap. Intelligent Control in Drying serves as an innovative and practical guide for researchers and professionals in the field of drying technologies, providing an overview of control principles and systems used in drying operations, from classical to model-based to adaptive and optimal control. At the same time, it lays out approaches to synthesis of control systems, based on the objectives and control strategies, reflecting complexity of drying process and material under drying. This essential reference covers both fundamental and practical aspects of intelligent control, sensor fusion and dynamic optimization with respect to drying.

Alex Martynenko is a professor at Bioelectronics and Bioinstrumentation in Dalhousie University. Working on the border of biological science and engineering, he is developing innovative drying and food processing technologies. Working in University of Guelph, he developed minimal processing technology for ginseng root drying. This technology, developed for Ontario ginseng growers, significantly decreased energy requirements and improved quality of ginseng drying. In 2007 he established a framework for a strong and innovative Imaging Research Program in Dalhousie University with emphasis on two major research themes: (i) multi-spectral imaging of food quality in drying; (ii) optimization in drying operations. Through his career, Dr Martynenko has successfully managed a number of research projects related to the engineering of innovative processing technologies and control systems. He successfully completed 28 research projects, including 3 international; presented results of research work in peer-reviewed scientific journals (62), and on international conferences (46). He is author and co-author of four books and 10 patents, requested author of two reviews in Drying Technology and an instructor for industry-oriented short courses.