A backstepping-based control algorithm for multi-span roll-to-roll web system

Multi-layer printing technology is used wisely in printed electronics industry. The small variation of web tension will reduce the quality of production. Thus, web velocity and tension control algorithm play an important role in improving the quality of product in roll-to-roll manufacturing technology. Most algorithms of linearized systems proposed in recent years use PI or PID controllers. Due to the increasing demand of high accuracy in printed electronics industry at micrometer-level, it is necessary to have a precise control scheme of web velocity and tension in the presence of disturbance. In this paper, a mathematical model of modified strict form model is proposed, and a systematic design method of backstepping controller is formulating for this model by using the backstepping based design. By using the proposed theory, a precise control algorithm is proposed for three-span roll-to-roll web control system. The design parameters are chosen optimally by using the modified genetic algorithm. The outcomes of proposed algorithm prove the reliability throughout simulation results in Matlab/Simulink and experimental results.