What Is A Control System?
A control system manages the behavior of other devices or systems.
According to Wikipedia “The term ‘control system’ may be applied to the
essentially manual controls that allow an operator, for example, to close
and open a hydraulic press, perhaps including logic so that it cannot be
moved unless safety guards are in place.”
An automatic sequential control system may trigger a series of mechanical
actuators in the correct sequence to perform a task. For example, various
electric and pneumatic transducers may fold and glue a cardboard box, fill
it with product and then seal it in an automatic packaging machine.
Programmable logic controllers are used in many cases such as this, but
several alternative technologies exist.
In the case of linear feedback (closed loop) systems, a control loop,
including sensors, control algorithms, and actuators, is arranged in such
a fashion as to try to regulate a variable at a set point or target value.
An example of this may increase the fuel supply to a furnace when a
measured temperature drops. PID controllers are common and effective in
cases such as this. Control systems that include some sensing of the
results they are trying to achieve are making use of feedback and so can,
to some extent, adapt to varying circumstances. Open-loop control systems
do not make use of feedback, and run only in pre-arranged ways.”
Why Are Control Systems Important?
More than ever, embedded software lies at the heart of almost every
product on the market. But embedded software control system development is
about more than just writing code – it’s about understanding your product
and the environment in which it lives. Sensors, wireless controls, user
inputs, and more all bombard the control system with unpredictable and
simultaneous data streams – streams that need to be prioritized and dealt
with on a real-time basis.
Developing a firm foundational logic for the control system, through
flow-charting, walk-throughs, and simulations is the critical first step
in every project. Only then do software engineers begin coding.
The system should also take the user interface into consideration. Too
many products are encumbered by poorly integrated features that negatively
impact consumer perception. Simple mockups and simulations at the start of
a project allow product designers to review a variety of concepts with
typical end users to determine what works – and more importantly – what
doesn’t.
How Mars International Can Help
The Mars Team of engineers helps develop the control system interface with
the consumer in mind. With prototyping, we develop a complete package
including an electronic schematic design and printed circuit board layout.
We help companies achieve the most value from a design, while still
maintaining high-quality standard. It is a mindset that we bring to every
project we undertake.
Our services include:
Embedded Software Development
Detailed Logic Validation
Real-Time Signal Processing
Ergonomic User Interface Design
Expert in Microchip, ST, and Atmel Processors
Value-conscious Hardware Design
Contact Mars International today to find out how we can help with your
next project.