6 Logic controller design. Chapter 6 presents Boolean function-based models that have been derived by using sequential or combinatorial logic-based techniques to capture the relationship between the state outputs of discrete event system operations and the state inputs of their transition conditions. Hence, after performing process description and functional analysis, a design methodology of a logic controller for process operations (discrete event systems) is proposed. Subsequent systems behavioristic formal modeling is achieved by using techniques such as truth table and K-maps, sequence table analysis and switching theory, state diagram (Mealy and Moore) or even state function charts. Some illustrative examples covering key logic controller design steps are presented from process schematics and involved I/O equipment listing, wiring diagrams with some design strategies such as fail-safe design and interlocks, to state transition tables, I/O Boolean function and timing diagrams. Examples of logic controller designs include cases of elevator vertical transportation, an automatic fruit picker, a driverless car and biomedical systems such as robot surgery and laser-based surgery. Overall, the chapter topics cover: (i) the methodology for Boolean algebra based on the modeling of discrete event systems and (ii) logic controller design methodology to derive input/output (I/O) Boolean functions based on truth table and Karnaugh maps, switching theory or state diagrams, wiring and electrical diagrams and P&I and PF diagrams.
7 Hybrid process controller design. Chapter 7 presents a generic design and implementation methodology for process monitoring and control strategies (logic and continuous) with algorithms to ensure operations safety of hybrid systems (i.e. systems integrating discrete event and discrete time characteristics). First, functional and operational process requirements are outlined to define hybrid control and supervision systems with respect to logic and continuous control software and data integration and process data gathering as well as multi-functional process data analysis and reporting. Subsequently, a design methodology is proposed for the design of monitoring and control systems. Some cases are used to illustrate the design of process monitoring and hybrid control for elevator motion, drying cement pozzolana and a brewery bottle washing process. Overall, chapter topics include hybrid control system design, piping and instrumentation diagram, system operations FAST and SADT decomposition methods, process start and stop operating mode graphical analysis and a sequential functional chart (SFC) as well as process interlock design.
8 Instrumentation modeling: sensors, detectors and electrical-driven actuators. Chapter 8 provides an overview of electrical-driven actuators models and sensors encountered in mechatronics with their technical specifications and performance requirements. This is suitable for electric motors, electrofluidic and electrothermal actuating systems. Similarly, binary actuators such as electroactive polymers, piezo-actuators, shape alloys, solenoids and even nano devices are technically described and modeled. In addition, Chapter 8 describes a spectrum of digital and analog sensing and detecting methods as well as the technical characterization and physical operating principles of the instrumentation commonly encountered in mechatronic systems. Among sensors presented, there are motion sensors (position, distance, velocity, flow and acceleration), force sensors, pressure or torque sensors (contact-free and contact) temperature sensors and detectors, proximity sensors, light sensors and smart sensors, capacitive proximity, pressure switches and vacuum switches, RFID-based tracking devices and electromechanical contact switches. In addition, some smart sensing instrumentation based on electrostatic, piezo-resistive, piezo-electric and electromagnetic sensing principles are presented. Overall, chapter topics include actuating systems such as motors (AC, DC and stepper), belt, screw-wheels, pumps, heaters and valves along with detection and measurement devices of process variables (force, speed, position, temperature, pressure, gas and liquid chemical content), RFID detection, sensor characteristics (resolution, accuracy, range etc.) and nano as well as smart sensors.
This textbook emphases on the modeling and analysis of real-life environment and the integration of control design and instrumentation components of mechatronic systems through a suitable selection and tuning of actuating, sensing, transmitting and computing or controlling units. Indeed, this book covers control instrumentation such as sensors, transducers and actuators as well as aspects of matching and interconnecting these control instruments, particularly the interface between connected devices and signal conversion, modification and conditioning. As such, the reader is expected at the conclusion of this textbook to have fully mastered: (i) the design requirements and the design methodology for control systems; (ii) the sizing and selection of the instrumentation involved in industrial process control as well as microelectromechanical devices and smart sensors; (iii) the use of microprocessors for process control, as well as signal conditioning and (iv) the sizing and the selection of actuating equipment for industrial processes. Numerous examples and case studies are used to illustrate formal modeling, hybrid controller design and the selection of instrumentation for electrical-driven machine actuation and DAQ related to systems dynamics and process operations. Through these case studies, the reader should gain practical understanding of topics related to the control system and instrumentation allowing him/her to fulfill a control and instrument engineering position where he/she is expected: (i) to possess a good knowledge of instrumentation operating conditions and control requirements; (ii) to size and select control instrumentation; (iii) to design, develop and implement digital controllers; (iv) to design engineering processes and electrical-driven systems; (v) to collaborate with design engineers and process engineers and technicians for the cost- and time-based acquisition of systems and processes control equipment and (vi) to perform technical audit to ensure instruments compliance with health and safety regulations.
This book is conceived to develop the reader's skills for engineering-based problem solving, engineering system design, critical analysis and implementation of control systems and instrumentation. It allows self-study via comprehensive and straightforward step-by-step modular procedures. In addition, examples with their accompanying MATLAB® routines, as well as design and selection related exercises and problems, are provided with their solutions. Furthermore, a dedicated textbook companion website allows the reader to download additional material for teaching, such as slide presentations of the chapter material, data files for additional laboratory sessions, example files as well as 2D and 3D innovative virtual labs of physical real-life systems (i.e. model-based simulation tools that could be associated to real life system for in-class lab sessions).
Suggestions for a teaching plan for applied control theory of mechatronic systems and electrical-driven processes would be as follows: (i) Chapter 1 through Chapter 5 (up to Section 5.3.1) for an introductory digital control level course during a semester; (ii) Chapters 2, 3 and 5 (Sections 5.3 and 5.4) for advanced control students with a control theory background; (iii) Chapters 1, 3 (Sections 3.3 and 3.4) and 8 for electric-driven machine and instrumentation students with computer hardware and software programming experience; (iv) Chapters 2, 3 (Sections 3.3 and 3.4), 5 (Sections 5.2.4, 5.3 and 5.4) and 6–8 for field control and instrumentation engineers interested in the design or the migration of process control of hybrid systems.