Control Systems

Control Systems

1. Made up of Sensors, Computer/Proccesor and Output devices

   • Senors
     • Input devices that send data to the computer/processor
     • • Temperature sensors • Light sensors • Sound sensors • Pressure sensors (Barometric - air pressure, Measures depth, Something pressing on them) • Humidity Sensors • Passive Infrared sensors (PIR) (detects movement)
   • Output
     • • Lights • Heaters • Air conditioners • Motors • Stepper motors (motor that turns in steps e.g. robot arms) • Bells/Sirens • Actuators (Moves e.g. open window)
   • Computer/Processor
     • Uses a control program to decides what action to take. Once made the decision a signal is sent to the output device

2. Advantages

   • • Can orperate 24/7 • Cheaper • Works in dangerous places • Easy to change the way the device works by re-programming it

3. Disadvantages

   • • Initial cost of equipment is expensive • Equipment can wrong • Fewer people needed, unemployment

4. Data Logging

   • Readings are taken automaticaly
   • Set the logging over a period (total time over which the readings will be taken)
   • Set the logging rate/logging interval (How often the readings are taken)
   • Can put put in remote locations
   • Data can be sent back wirelessly