Firefly algorithm tuning of PID controller for glucose concentration control during E. coli fed-batch cultivation process

In this paper, a novel meta-heuristics algorithm, namely the Firefly Algorithm (FA), is applied to PID controller parameter tuning in Smith Predictor. The controller is used to control feed rate and to maintain glucose concentration at the desired set point for an E. coli fed-batch cultivation process. The FA adjustments are done based on several pre-tests. Simulation results indicate that the applied FA is effective and efficient. Good closed-loop system performance is achieved on the basis of the considered PID controllers tuning procedures. Moreover, the observed results are compared to the ones obtained by applying Genetic algorithms. The comparison of both meta-heuristics shows superior performance for FA PID controller tuning of the considered nonlinear control system than GA tuned controller.