AbstractModel predictive control (MPC) is an optimization‐based approach that has been successfully applied to a wide variety of control problems. In most of nonlinear strategies, the controllers are based on linear models with fixed parameters so that the vast body of linear control theory can be applied. Other solutions include the use of a nonlinear analytical model, combinations of linear empirical models, etc. This paper presents an MPC algorithm which uses on‐line simulation and rule‐based control. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)