nMPyC is a Python library for solving optimal control problems via model predictive control (MPC).
nMPyC can be understood as a blackbox method. The user can only enter the desired optimal control problem without having much knowledge of the theory of model predictive control or its implementation in Python. Nevertheless, for an advanced user, there is the possibility to adjust all parameters.
This library supports a variety of discretization methods and optimizers including CasADi and SciPy solvers.
In summary, nMPyC
- solves nonlinear finite horizon optimal control problems
- solves nonlinear optimal control problems with model predicitve control (MPC)
- uses algorithmic differentation via CasADi
- can chose between different discretization methods
- can chose between different solvers for nonlinear optimization (depending on the problem)
- supports time-varying optimal control problems
- supports the special structure of linear-quadratic optimal control problems
- supports discounted optimal control problems
- can save and load the simulation results
The nMPyC software is Python based and works therefore on any OS with a Python distribution. nMPyC has been developed by Jonas Schießl and Lisa Krügel under the supervision of Prof. Lars Grüne at the Chair of Applied Mathematic of University of Bayreuth. nMPyC is a further devolpement in Python of the Matlab code that was implemented for the NMPC Book from Lars Grüne and Jürgen Pannek.
The easiest way to install the nMPyC package is using PIP by running
pip install nmpyc
This command will automatically add the package to the Python default path and install the required Python packages and their dependencies which are CasADi, osqp, NumPy, SciPy, matplotlib and dill.
If you use nMPyC for published work please cite the following publication
@Inbook{nmpyc,
author="Schie{\ss}l, Jonas and Kr{\"u}gel, Lisa",
editor="Daniilidis, Aris and Gr{\"u}ne, Lars and Haunschmied, Josef and Tragler, Gernot",
title="nMPyC A Python Package for Solving Optimal Control Problems via Model Predictive Control",
bookTitle="Model Predictive Control: Engineering Methods for Economists",
year="2025",
publisher="Springer",
address="Cham",
pages="111--133",
doi="10.1007/978-3-031-85256-5_5",
url="https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-85256-5_5"
}
Please remember to properly cite other software that you might be using too if you use (e.g. CasADi, IPOPT, ...).
For any specific algorithm, also consider citing the original author's paper.
For further informations about the Python library please visit the nMPyC Documentation.