Every control system is modified and created to be able to perform a specific function. In robotics, control systems allow the movement and function of parts of robots along with the execution of specific motions. In robotics, the most important is the human-to-machine interaction that decides how adaptable robots can be. In this article, I will explain to you the role of the control systems in robotics and their implementation. So let’s start.
What is Control System?
A control system is a combination of different elements connected as a unit to direct and regulate itself or other systems in order to provide output.
Types of Control System
The control system is classified on the basis of the output involved in controlling action:
1. Open-Loop Control System
The frameworks in which the control activity is unaffected by the yield are said to be open-loop control frameworks. The applied input or the controlling factor is independent of the system output.
They are defined as the non-feedback system. The reason is that there is no comparison between the input and output of the control system for controlling the action.
Example:
Let us take the immersion rod as an example to explain the open-loop system. An immersion rod is used for heating water. When the external supply is applied to the rod as a result of which it starts to heat water. But there is no level in the rod up to the level it will heat the water. In this case, feedback is not given. So it is an example of an open-loop control system.
2. Closed-Loop Control System
The closed-loop control system is defined as the applied input or controlling factor depending upon the output of the system. It is also known as the feedback control system because in such a system there is a comparison between the input and the output for achieving the desired results.
Example:
Let us take the example of the air conditioner. The temperature of the room is measured and the n the temperature is adjusted according to our desire.
Is a control system important in robotics?
It is better to say that it usually depends upon the requirement. Generally, the robot has modules/subsystems in order to achieve the desired result.
Important Hardware Modules
The most important hardware module for robots is sensor suits, motor drivers, actuators, a signal processing module, microcontrollers (for specific tasks), and microprocessors( for handling them at a time).
Who can understand/perform this task?
A person with mechtronices background can perform the above-mentioned hardware modules.
Difference Between Control System and Robotics
Robotics can be seen as an application of control engineering. Dealing with the control system includes also a lot of mathematics and has a curriculum with a course on linear and linear control, system identification, and multi-body dynamics. On the other hand, robotics programs are applications of these courses. But robotics program also includes computer vision, AI, and human-robot interaction. So control systems provide you with tools and techniques that are helpful in robotics.
Application of Control System
The following are some important application of control system:
- Robot Arm
The robot arm is used in industrial manufacturing that require control of position at the end piece.
- Conveyor Belts
The conveyor belt moves at a constant speed so for this we need a control system to make sure the required speed is always achieved.
- Air Crafts
One of the important applications is to make sure satellites are in place above the earth.
- Biological Functions
Many biological functions are achieved by regulating the number of chemicals in the blood. Insulin injections are an example of feedback control.
Conclusion
It is right to say that control systems and robotics are interrelated with each other. One with the knowledge of control theory (linear and nonlinear) and mechanics (Kinematics and Dynamics) can help in designing robotic systems but also systems such as aircrafts, mechatronic systems and spacecraft.