A new framework for batch process optimization using the flexible recipe

Batch processes are characterized by a high degree of flexibility that can be appropriately exploited to obtain a maximum production profit. In principle, the nominal production recipe assumes an optimum balance between quality and costs for batches of products. However, in practice, this optimum performance is achieved only when this balance is extended to management of the entire batch plant. In this work, a framework is presented that fully exploits this inner flexibility of batch processes at the plant level. The framework considers a batch recipe model that interacts with a plant-wide model to constitute the so-called flexible recipe model. First, the potential use of this framework is shown by integrating a general multipurpose batch process scheduling algorithm into a general linear recipe model. Next, this framework is illustrated in practice using a real industrial scenario that exhibits complex recipe behavior. Finally, the benefits of considering the flexible recipe concept for the scheduling of batch processes are discussed.