Automating Manufacturing Systems with PLCs (Version 4.7, April 14, 2005)

Abstract

<TODO> Some sections are still in point form. The last major task of this book will be to write the preface to reflect the book contents and all of the features. Control systems apply artificial means to change the behavior of a system. The type of control problem often determines the type of control system that can be used. Each controller will be designed to meet a specific objective. The major types of control are shown in Figure 1.1. Figure 1.1 Control Dichotomy • Continuous - The values to be controlled change smoothly. e.g. the speed of a car. • Logical - The value to be controlled are easily described as on-off. e.g. the car motor is on-off. NOTE: all systems are continuous but they can be treated as logical for simplicity. e.g. “When I do this, that always happens!” For example, when the power is turned on, the press closes! • Linear - Can be described with a simple differential equation. This is the preferred starting point for simplicity, and a common approximation for real world problems. e.g. A car can be driving around a track and can pass same the same spot at a constant velocity. But, the longer the car runs, the mass decreases, and it travels faster, but requires less gas, etc. Basically, the math gets CONTROL CONTINUOUS DISCRETE LINEAR NON_LINEAR CONDITIONAL SEQUENTIAL e.g. PID e.g. MRAC e.g. FUZZY LOGIC BOOLEAN TEMPORAL e.g. TIMERS e.g. COUNTERS EVENT BASED EXPERT SYSTEMS plc wiring - 1.2 tougher, and the problem becomes non-linear. e.g. We are driving the perfect car with no friction, with no drag, and can predict how it will work perfectly. • Non-Linear - Not Linear. This is how the world works and the mathematics become much more complex. e.g. As rocket approaches sun, gravity increases, so control must change. • Sequential - A logical controller that will keep track of time and previous events.