Learning outcome

After successfully completing the course, the candidate will have achieved the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence.

Knowledge

The candidate can:

• Describe the structure and operation of automation systems based on closed-loop control with PID (proportional-integral-derivative), feedforward and logical control

Skills:

The candidate can:

• Design and document the structure of an automation system in the form of a block diagram and Piping & Instrumatation Diagrams (P&ID)
• Simulate an automation system
• Develop software for a computer-based automation system
• Perform practical experiments with the adjustment of regulators
• Search for information about automation systems

General competence

The candidate has/can:

• Insight into the environmental and economic benefits of automation
• Communicate the results of automation projects
• Collaborate with other students on automation projects

Course Description

System theory of dynamic systems: Mathematical modelling with differential equations, including state space model and transfer functions. Model-based analysis of process dynamics.

Control Systems: The purpose of control. Feedback control with PID controller (control loop). Components of a control loop, including industrial automation, actuators and sensors. Factors affecting the stability of a control loop. Stability margins. Controller tuning. Feedforward control. Cascade control. Ratio control. Stabilizing control of process plants. Documentation of control systems using block diagrams and technical flowcharts.

Logical control: Binary signals in control and measurement. Predictive control with function blocks and ladder diagrams.

Simulation of automation systems

Computer-based home automation systems

Using LabVIEW for simulation and implementation of automation systems

Teaching and Learning Methods

Self-study, lectures, theoretical exercises, simulations, projects, laboratory work.

Assessment Methods

Continuous assessment: All project and laboratory exercises must be completed and approved in order to pass the course.

Final examination: Written examination counts for 100% of the final grade; the project and lab exercises must also be approved.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean