Controller Selection

Mechatronics System Design
Controller and control algorithm Selection

Dr. Ashraf Saleem
Introduction
The design of mechatronic systems involves the choice of the

controller. This is arguably the most critical decision in the design
process. A vast variety of controllers are available in the market.
Another critical decision that the designer must make is the type of
control algorithm to be used. Note that the controller and the
controller algorithm choices are directly related to each other. There
are many controller algorithms that can be used for mechatronic
systems.
Dr. Ashraf Saleem/ Philadelphia University
Controller Selection: Programmable Logic Controllers

(PLC)
A programmable logic controller (PLC) is essentially a digitalcomputer-like system that can properly sequence a complex task,
consisting of many discrete operations and involving several
devices, which need to be carried out in a sequential manner.
PLC performs basic computer functions such as logic, sequencing,
timing, and counting. It can carry out simpler computations and
control tasks such as proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control.
Such control operations are called continuous-state control,
where process variables are continuously monitored and made to
stay very close to desired values.
There is another important class of controls, known as discretestate control, where the control objective is for the process to follow
a required sequence of states (or steps).
PLC- overview
A programmable logic controller operates according to some logic

sequence programmed into it.
Connected to a PLC are a set of input devices (e.g., pushbuttons,
limit switches, and analog sensors such as RTD temperature
sensors, diaphragm-type pressure sensors, piezoelectric
accelerometers, and strain-gauge load sensors) and
a set of output devices (e.g., actuators such as dc motors,
solenoids, and hydraulic rams, warning signal indicators such as
lights, alphanumeric LED displays and bells, valves, and continuous
control elements such as PID controllers).
Each such device is assumed to be a two-state device (taking the
logical value 0 or 1). Now, depending on the condition of each input
device and according to the programmed-in logic, the PLC will
activate the proper state (e.g., on or off) of each output device.
PLC- overview
As noted before, a PLC is a digital computer that is

dedicated to perform discrete-state control tasks.
A typical PLC consists of a microprocessor, RAM and
ROM memory units, and interface hardware, all
interconnected through a suitable bus structure.
In addition, there will be a keyboard, a display screen,
and other common peripherals. A basic PLC system can
be expanded by adding expansion modules (memory,
I/O modules, etc.) into the system rack.
PLC- overview
In addition to turning on and off the discrete output

components in a correct sequence at proper times, a
PLC can perform other useful operations.
In particular, it can perform simple arithmetic operations
such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
on input data. It is also capable of performing counting
and timing operations, usually as part of its normal
functional requirements.
Conversion between binary and binary-coded decimal
(BCD) might be required for displaying digits on an LED
panel, and for interfacing the PLC with other digital
hardware (e.g., digital input devices and digital output
devices).
PLC Hardware
As noted before, a PLC is a digital computer that is dedicated to

perform discrete-state control tasks.
A typical PLC consists of a microprocessor, RAM and ROM memory
units, and interface hardware, all interconnected through a suitable
bus structure.
In addition, there will be a keyboard, a display screen, and other
common peripherals. A basic PLC system can be expanded by
adding expansion modules (memory, I/O modules, etc.) into the
system rack.
PLC Hardware
PLC Selection Parameters
The capabilities of a PLC can be determined by such parameters as

the number of input devices (e.g., 16)
the number of output devices (e.g., 12) which it can handle,
the number of program steps (e.g., 2000), and
the speed at which a program can be executed (e.g., 1 M
steps/s).
Other factors such as the size and the nature of memory and the
nature of timers and counters in the PLC, signal voltage levels,
and choices of outputs, are all important factors.
Controller Selection: Computer control
Acquisition and utilization of data are crucial for a mechatronic

system in all stages of design, development, testing, operation, and
maintenance. In particular, sensor-based data acquisition is the
basis of feedback control.
Furthermore, output signals are measured for system monitoring,
tuning and supervisory control; and input-output signal pairs are
measured for testing, experimental modeling and evaluation of a
mechatronic system.
A typical mechatronic system operates as a self-contained unit and
involves direct data acquisition. There are situations, however,
where a group of mechatronic systems have to operate in a
coordinated manner, as in a mechatronic workcell in a factory (or
process plant) setting.
Also it may be necessary to monitor a mechatronic system remotely
and to share common resources between several applications.
Networked control is needed then.
Data Acquisition
Sensors in a mechatronic system are large analog in nature. They

cannot be directly linked to the system computer without proper
interface hardware and software.
This is generally the case even when the transducers are pulsegenerating (e.g., an incremental encoder. )
A digital instrument or an instrument with a digital interface may be
directly connected to a computer only if it is compatible with the
computer bus. Lack of compatibility among proprietary equipment is
the main reason for connectivity problems.
A typical computer-controlled mechatronic system uses a plug-in
interface board called data acquisition Card or DAQ, installed in an
expansion slot of the computer, for data acquisition and control. This
I/O card is a hardware module with associated driver software,
based in a host computer (PC), and connected through its bus (e.g.,
PCI bus).
Data Acquisition
It will be multifunctional in general, and will accommodate both

analog and digital data.
In a motion control application, for example, it forms the input-output
link between the motor and the controller. It can provide many (say,
eight) analog signals to drive many (eight) motors, and hence
termed a multi-axis card.
The digital-to-analog conversion (DAC) capability is built into the I/O
card (e.g., 16 bit DAC including a sign bit, 10 V output voltage
range).
Similarly, the analog-to-digital conversion (ADC) function is included
in the I/O card (e.g., eight analog input channels with 16 bit ADC
including a sign bit, 10 V output voltage range).
These input channels can be used for analog sensors such as
tachometers, potentiometers, and strain gauges. Equally important
are the encoder channels to read the pulse signals from the optical
encoders mounted on the dc servomotors.
Data Acquisition
Typically the encoder input channels are equal in number to the

analog output channels (and the number of axes, e.g., eight).
The position pulses are read using counters (e.g., 24-bit counters),
and the speed is determined by the associated pulse rate. The rate
at which the encoder pulses are counted can be quite high (e.g., 10
MHz).
In addition, a number of bits (e.g., 32) of digital input and output may
be available through the I/O card, for use in simple digital sensing,
control, and switching functions.
Direct interfacing of sensors with the control computer is the
common architecture of data acquisition in a mechatronic system
(see Figure)
Data Acquisition
This arrangement has many

advantages. It is fast (e.g., 20,000
bits/s for an RS-232 serial link, 20
MB/s for parallel GPIB) with no
delay and providing real-time data
acquisition.
Direct interfacing has
disadvantages as well. For
example, the distance between the
data source (sensor) and the
receiver (computer) is limited (e.g.,
15 m for an RS-232 link; 20 m for a
GPIB), remote monitoring and
supervision would not be feasible,
Networked systems provide a
solution to these problems.
Communication Networks
A distributed mechatronic system will have many users who would

need to use the resources simultaneously and, perhaps, would wish
to communicate with each other as well.
Furthermore, different types of devices from a variety of suppliers
with different specifications, data types and levels may have to be
interconnected. A communication network with switching nodes and
multiple routes is needed for this purpose.
When a plant uses multiple mechatronic devices, they have to be
interconnected through a network. Also, the plant will need access
to shared and public resources and means of remote monitoring and
supervision.
In order to achieve connectivity between different types of devices
having different origins it is desirable to use a standardized bus that
is supported by all major suppliers of the needed devices. The
Foundation Fieldbus or Industrial Ethernet may be adopted for this
purpose.
Fieldbus
Fieldbus is a standardized bus for a plant, which may consist of an

interconnected system of mechatronic devices.
It provides connectivity between different types of devices having
different origins. Also, it provides access to shared and public
resources. Furthermore, it can provide means of remote monitoring
and supervision.
The fieldbus uses a four-layer communication protocol stack, as
shown in Figure. This is similar to the seven-layer ISO OSI model,
with the layers 3 to 6 removed, and a new layer (User Layer) added
at the top.
In the Figure, the function of each layer is described in a manner
analogous to the communication method that uses an ordinary letter
in a public postal system.
Fieldbus
Fieldbus
A suitable architecture for networking a mechatronic plant is shown

in Figure.
The industrial plant in this case consists of many intelligent
mechatronic devices (IMD), one or more programmable logic
controllers (PLC) and a distributed control system (DSC) or a
supervisory controller.
The IMDs will have direct I/O communication with their own
components and also will process connectivity through the plant
network. Similarly, a PLC may have direct connectivity with a group
of devices as well as networked connectivity with other devices. The
DSC will supervise, manage, coordinate and control the overall
plant.
Case study: Data acquisition
A final project at Mechatronics Department/Philadelphia university.

The project aimed at developing a COMPUTER- CONTROLLED
SYSTEM (CCS) FOR READY MIXED CONCRETE PLANT
A prototype of the system has been built to implement the idea of

the (CCS) system operation. System hardware consists of DAQ
card, PC, mixer, tanks, sensors and actuators. The GUI was
developed using LABVIEW.
Case study: Project Block Diagram

Process Flow Chart
PC
Monitoring
& control
DAQ Card
Data
Acquisition
SAND
TANK
CEMENT
TANK
PEBBLES
TANK
Level sensor
Level sensor
Level sensor
(MIO)
Input/output
Model
WATER
TANK
Level sensor
Pump
Screw Conveyer
Screw Motor
MIXER
Pipe
Motor
Wire
Case study: Mechanical Design
Case study: Real System
Case Study: Video
Controller Selection: Embedded Systems
A combination of hardware and software which together form a

component of a larger machine. An embedded system is designed
to run on its own without human intervention, and may be required
to respond to events in real time. Embedded systems are used in
industrial machines, automobiles, medical equipment, cameras,
household appliances, airplanes, vending machines, cellular phone,
PDAs, toys and many other devices.
Embedded Systems - Example
Embedded Systems - Example
Why Use Embedded Systems
User functionality portability

User convenience, comfort - Auto Appliances, GPS, DVR, iPod
Low power and safety iron, coffee maker, LED Lighting
Commercial/industrial applications
Complex features to be simplified
Cost reduction with acceptable Quality
Embedded System Hardware
Source:
History of Microcontroller
November 1971: Intel introduced the world's first single chip

microprocessor, the Intel 4004.
April of 1972: First 8-bit microprocessor appeared on the market under a

name 8008
April of 1974: 8080 became available. Addressed 64Kb of memory, had 75

instructions, and cost $360.
MOS Technology - WESCON exhibit ( 1975): a pivotal event in the

history of microprocessors. Announced the 6501 and 6502 at $25 each
Motorola (1974) (originally car radio manufacturers) They announced

their 8-bit 6800 processor.
Intel (1976) introduced an 8-bit microcontroller, the MCS-48. They ship

251,000 in this year.
Intel (1980) introduced the 8051, an 8-bit microcontroller with on-board

EPROM memory. They ship 22 million and 91 million in 1983.
Microcontroller Manufacturers
ARM Advanced RISC Machines

Atmel
Cypress- programmable blocks
Freescale Semiconductor- uC, DSP
Intel- 8051/8052 cores
Microchip
NEC
Renasas
Sharp
ST Microelectronics
Texas Instruments- uC, DSP
Many others
A Low End Microcontroller

PIC10F200 Microcontroller
33 12-bit wide instructions

2-level deep stack
4MHz precision internal
clock
Sleep mode 100nA
Internal pull-ups
3 Input/Output
8-bit Timer
Options Comparator, memory
Example: DC motor
control
Flash
256 x 12
Clock
Reset
Microchip
PIC10F200
Watch
Dog
I/O
(3)
Input (1)
RAM
16 Bytes
A High End Microcontroller

Freescale MPC5554 uC
64KB SRAM
Freescale
32-Bit
MPC5554
MMU
32-Ch TPU
(2)
2MB Flash
32K Cache
NEXUS
DSP
64-Ch DMA
32-bit wide instructions

132MHz,
416-Pin Plastic BGA
ECC Flash, SRAM
Interrupt controller
PLL frequency modulated for
JTAG
EMI
Applications
Engine control
Robotics
Turbine control
CAN Bus
(3)
A/D
40-Ch
PLL
32-Bit External Bus
64-Ch
I/O
Microcontroller Selection Criteria
Speed of operation, complexity 8/16/32 Bits

Cost HW/SW tradeoffs
Power consumption - TI, Microchip, Freescale
Memory Size Flash, RAM, EEPROM
Number of I/O
Analog A/D, DAC, Comparator, Op-amp
Serial Communication- SPI, I2C, USB, IR, GbE
Development tools
Timers input capture, output compare
Environmental conditions
Control Algorithms
In real life systems, it is crucial to consider all the factors that might
influence the decision of selecting certain control algorithm in terms
of: space, processing power, environment, cost of final product,
programming language, safety criticality of the application, required

time to market, reliability and number of products to be produced.
Another critical decision that the designer must make is the type of
control algorithm to use. There are many controller algorithms that
can be used for mechatronic systems. Three categories will be
covered in this course: (1) On-off control, (2) Proportional-IntegralDerivative (PID) control, (3) Intelligent control
On-off Control
This is the simplest method of control. The control action has three
possible outputs: on, off, or no change. This method is usually used
for slow acting operations (such as refrigeration unit). The
advantage is its ease of design and low cost. However, it cannot
vary the controlled variable with precision.
Examples include: temperature control, washing machine.
Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) control
This is the most commonly used controller algorithm. It is applied in

automated manufacturing and mechatronic products. In its simplest
mode, only the proportional part is used. The error between the
desired and measured values of the controlled variable is
calculated, multiplied by a gain and applied to the system under
control. An integral mode is usually added to minimize the steady
state error while a derivative mode is added to minimize the
transient overshoot .
Although it is easy to implement any PID-based control scheme on
mechatronic system, the tuning procedure of the gain parameters
Kv, Ki, and Kf is complex due to the high non-linearities associated
with such systems. The system can be tuned to work adequately
with one operating point but fail with other operating conditions.
PID Tuning Methods/Gain-scheduling
One method for tuning the controller is gain-scheduling. This

method aims to overcome the nonlinear behaviour by scheduling
the associated control gains in response to variations in the system
conditions or status.
One of the methods for gain-scheduling is to use a gain table,
where table entries are made automatically during system operation.
Such a system could establish (or learn) appropriate controller
parameters for different operating and initial conditions. Therefore
gain-scheduling provides a means of compensation for known and
repeatable nonlinearities.
One major drawback of the method is that the system design is
time-consuming if the learning capabilities are not included with the
control system
PID Tuning Methods/Fuzzy Logic
The tuning of the controller gains tends to be of a fuzzy nature.

With fuzzy logic, new forms of tuning techniques can be realized
without the need for mathematical identification. To describe the
control logic, the knowledge of human experts in the form of a rule
base is used instead of mathematical equations based on linear
analysis.
This approach does not require significant potential power; therefore
it can be easily embedded within a digital controller. However, the
process of fuzzy logic tuning is related largely on a trial-and-error
basis.
PID Tuning Methods/Neural Network
Tuning approaches based on neural networks negate the need for

detailed knowledge of the system being controlled.
The network can be used to emulate the mechatronic system after
being trained and validated.
As soon as the designed motion profile is fully defined, a feature
extraction module can be used to analyse and extract the response
features (e.g. overshoot, damping ratio, and steady state error).
If the chosen criteria are not met, these features will then be fed to
the rule-based parameter adjustment mechanism (PAM). New
values can then be assigned to the associated control parameters
by the PAM, based on the characteristic values of the response
features, the pre-defined rules and the specified performance
requirements. Iteration continues until the specified performance
achieved.
PID Tuning Methods/ Self-tuning
Self-tuning is also referred to as automatic tuning. The term

automatic tuning covers a variety of concepts such as adaptive
tuning, self tuning, tune on demand, and pre-tuning.
With self tuning more mathematical mechanisms are employed
which may incorporate some methods which are difficult to realise
by manual operation.
Feedforward control
Feed-forward control is to feed the command input signal or a

disturbance signal forward in some form and to combine it with
signals produced by a feedback loop or loops.
The objective is to modify the feedback information in such a way
that error resulting from the change in the command input or the
disturbance can be compensated for.
The addition of feed-forward disturbance control does not normally
affect the stability of the system or the nature of its response to the
changes in the command.
The main advantage of the feed-forward is that a low gain
proportional controller can be used. The use of a high gain
proportional control loop tends to increase the closed-loop stiffness
of the system but deteriorates its stability. The feed-forward
controller is designed so that it aims to eliminate system error. This
arrangement is desirable when the system stability is crucial and
only a small following error is allowed.
Adaptive Control
Typically adaptive control systems consist of two loops; an ordinary

feedback loop and a second loop which adjusts parameters of the
feedback loop.
The parameter adjustment loop comprises two main modular
elements. One module performs operations to estimate the
parameters of the model governing the plant process.
Based on this knowledge, the second module computes the value of
control parameters for the regulator.
Both parameter estimation and control adaptation can be done in
many different ways. Recursive least-squares estimation is one of
the most commonly used estimation technique.
Despite the fact that adaptive control improves the dynamic
performance of the system and reduces the influence of the
nonlinearities associated with mechatronic systems, it is based on
online evaluation of the process variation and updating the
controller. Online evaluation and tuning may cause accidental
damage to the drive and results in poor safety
Fuzzy Logic Control
Fuzzy logic can be regarded as a set of heuristic decision rules

which based on intuition and experience. It relies on integration the
understanding and experience of skilled operatives by expressing it
using a natural description language. Therefore it employs the
system descriptive model rather than complex numerical equation
The structure of the fuzzy controller largely depends on the input
and output classifications. Some of the common used in
mechatronic systems and well understood models are (1) Fuzzy PI
controllers, (2) Hybrid Fuzzy Controller, and (3) Fuzzy adaptive
Controller.
The advantages of the fuzzy controller are firstly, a thorough
understanding of the system or an accurate model is not required
unlike other optimal and adaptive control strategies, and
Secondly the simplicity of design and implementation, and thus
significantly reduces the time required to develop the entire system
Neural Networks Control
Neural networks are used nowadays to tackle some of the

Mechatronic control problems because of their inherent parallelism
and the ability to learn any kind of nonlinearity associated with the
system.
Generally, neural networks based control system performs a specific
form of adaptive control. It is represented as a nonlinear map
between the inputs and outputs which represent the dynamic
behaviour of the system.
This map forms a network that can be trained to implement any kind
of control strategy. The network is able to change the parameters of
the plant. It also can be trained on-line to adapt to the parameters
changing in the plant.
Neural networks architectures for implementing a large number of
control structures have been proposed including: (1) Model
reference Control, (2) Internal Model Control (IMC), and (3)
Predictive Control.
Neural Networks Control
This controller offers many advantages over others: (1) Parallelism,

(2) Capability of non-linear mapping, and (3) Training is possible for
various operating conditions, therefore it is adaptable to different
operating conditions.
Despite all the advantageous features that are offered from the
intelligent controllers, they are still suffering from many drawbacks
Fuzzy with fixed structures fail to stabilise the plant under wide
variations of the operating condition.
Their performance may effected by the presence of noise and
other uncertainties.
Furthermore, in some circumstances neural controller structures
require the model of the plant, which is tedious to get in case of
plants whose model is uncertain.
It may also be difficult to design controllers based solely on the
relationships between the input-output magnitudes, without a
thorough understanding of the system behaviour (the operative
experience)

Controller Selection

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Mechatronics System Design

Controller and control algorithm Selection

The design of mechatronic systems involves the choice of the

Dr. Ashraf Saleem/ Philadelphia University