Design of a fuzzy logic based controller for neutron power regulation

This work presents a fuzzy logic controller design for neutron power control, from its source to its full power level, applied to a nuclear reactor model. First, we present the basic definitions on fuzzy sets as generalized definitions of the crisp (non fuzzy) set theory. Likewise, we define the basic operations on fuzzy sets (complement, union, and intersection), and the operations on fuzzy relations such as projection and cylindrical extension operations. Furthermore, some concepts of the fuzzy control theory, such as the main modules of the typical fuzzy controller structure and its internal variables, are defined. After the knowledge base is obtained by simulation of the reactor behavior, where the controlled system is modeled by a simple nonlinear reactor model, this model is used to infer a set of fuzzy rules for the reactor response to different insertions of reactivity. The reduction of the response time, using fuzzy rule based controllers on this reactor, is possible by adjusting the output membership functions, by selecting fuzzy rule sets, or by increasing the number of crisp inputs to the fuzzy controller. System characteristics, such as number of rules, response times, and safety parameter values, were considered in the evaluation of each controller merits. Different fuzzy controllers are designed to attain the desired power level, to maintain a constant level for long periods of time, and to keep the reactor away from a shutdown condition. The basic differences among the controllers are the number of crisp inputs and the novel implementation of a crisp power level-based selection of different sets of output membership functions. Simulation results highlight, mainly: (1) A decrease of the response variations at low power level, and (2) a decrease in the time required to attain the desired neutron power. Finally, we present a comparative study of different fuzzy control algorithms applied to a nuclear model. (Author)