Teaching Of Control Theory Research Articles

Bond-Graph-Based Approach to Teach PID and Sliding Mode Control in Mechatronics

The main contribution of this article is creating synergy between subjects; this means that students use the same graphical tool in several subjects. So far, the bond graph has not been used in control theory, but it is the “native language” of mechatronics engineers, so we would like to introduce it into the teaching of control theory. The bond graph method is proposed as a novel teaching method to teach mechatronics subjects in the paper. The bond graph is a graphical alternative to ordinary differential equations from a mathematical standpoint. Traditionally, control theory employs ordinary differential equations, as they are familiar to control theorists. However, mathematically, both approaches are equivalent but require a slightly different approach in their application. This article highlights the mathematical similarities between the two approaches while emphasizing the distinctions in graphical representation. Another contribution is that the PID and sliding mode controller are represented using the bond graph method. In the meantime, through the use of practical examples, we effectively illustrate how the same problem can be solved using either approach. In the training materials, the PID controller and an adaptive robust sliding mode controller (ARSMC) with the bond graph are utilized as examples to demonstrate synergy in mechatronics. Finally, we present proof that mechatronic engineers achieve superior outcomes when utilizing the bond graph approach, based on test results from undergraduate students.

CONTROL THEORY AND FLIGHT CONTROL EDUCATION AT A CIVIL AVIATION ENGINEERING SCHOOL

In this communication, the teaching of Control Theory in a civil aviation engineering school, ENAC, is considered. After describing the evolution of flight control systems along the last decades and pointing out the new challenges faced in this area, teaching objectives with respect to Control Theory are discussed. The constraints involved with this multidisciplinary area are analyzed and the current teaching practice is described and assessed.

The Role of Interactive Graphic Tools in Teaching Control Theory

The availability of commercial computer-aided design packages has had a substantial effect on teaching of control theory. Computer aids have become an essential part of modem control engineering curriculum. This paper discusses the role of recent interactive graphical tools in teaching control theory. These tools are normally used in conjunction with interactive computer-aided design packages. However, the use of interactive graphical tools is particularly significant because they provide practical insight into control system fundamentals. They make possible an early introduction of concepts such as linearization, effects of nonlinearities, integrator-windup, time delays etc. on the performance of a control system. At the same time, they allow for demonstration of design iterations interactively. Hence design iterations using classical methods (root locus, Bode) and modern methods (LQG, H ∞ ) may be carried out in a very instructive fashion. The use of interactive graphical oriented tools would reinforce active participation of students