The Influence of Microelectronics on Fluid Power Control

Abstract

Abstract This survey paper demonstrates the way microelectronics influence the developement of fluid power control components and systems. Hardware oriented functions such as electronic control circuitry for valve actuation- are beeing integrated into devices to an ever increasing extent. This is resulting in a standarization of input and output signals, thus simplifying planning, putting into service and repair of systems. However, the essential influence of microelectronics can be witnessed in the possibilities of designing and realizing closed loop control concets in order to solve the problems of fluid technologiy better than by conventional ways and means. By the high versatility of digital controller concepts it is possible to specifically remedy the disadvantages of fluid power systems non-linear response with a clearly plannable effort. The application of microelectronics in the form of closed loop control computers, design computers and for the purpose of measured data evaluation is opening up the possibility of controller self- adjustment to changing parameters of the controlled system.