Comparison of low-complexity controllers in varying time-delay systems

Abstract : Motivated by the recent developments in networked control systems and control over wireless, this paper presents a comparison of five control algorithms that are based on PID, IMC and fuzzy gain scheduling techniques and discusses their performance in varying time-delay systems. The low complexity of the proposed algorithms makes their use attractive in resource-constrained environments such as wireless sensor and actuator networks. The control system consists of a controller, a simple process and an output delay in the feedback loop. Three different delay models are considered in this framework; constant, random, and correlated random delay. In addition to presenting modifications to the control algorithms to better fit the varying time-delay systems a delay-robust tuning method is proposed, and the performance of various controllers is evaluated using simulation. The results show the benefits of adapting the controller parameters based on delay measurement if its amplitude is significant with respect to the time-constant of the process. Nevertheless, the PID algorithm used in the study also performs well in all scenarios, and this is achieved by its careful tuning

A review of friction models in interacting joints for durability design.

This paper presents a comprehensive review of friction modelling to provide an understanding of design for durability within interacting systems. Friction is a complex phenomenon and occurs at the interface of two components in relative motion. Over the last several decades, the effects of friction and its modelling techniques have been of significant interests in terms of industrial applications. There is however a need to develop a unified mathematical model for friction to inform design for durability within the context of varying operational conditions. Classical dynamic mechanisms model for the design of control systems has not incorporated friction phenomena due to non-linearity behaviour. Therefore, the tribological performance concurrently with the joint dynamics of a manipulator joint applied in hazardous environments needs to be fully analysed. Previously the dynamics and impact models used in mechanical joints with clearance have also been examined. The inclusion of reliability and durability during the design phase is very important for manipulators which are deployed in harsh environmental and operational conditions. The revolute joint is susceptible to failures such as in heavy manipulators these revolute joints can be represented by lubricated conformal sliding surfaces. The presence of pollutants such as debris and corrosive constituents has the potential to alter the contacting surfaces, would in turn affect the performance of revolute joints, and puts both reliability and durability of the systems at greater risks of failure. Key literature is identified and a review on the latest developments of the science of friction modelling is presented here. This review is based on a large volume of knowledge. Gaps in the relevant field have been identified to capitalise on for future developments. Therefore, this review will bring significant benefits to researchers, academics and industrial professionals