7. Control Flashcards
Discuss a range of control systems.
Control systems automatically manage or regulate devices or processes. Examples include:
Automatic doors: detect motion to open/close automatically.
Heating systems: adjust temperature based on a thermostat’s input.
Traffic lights: use timers or sensors to manage traffic flow.
Outline the uses of microprocessors and sensor input in control systems.
Microprocessors control processes by executing instructions, while sensors provide real-time data. For example, sensors in a thermostat send temperature data to the microprocessor, which then adjusts heating.
Evaluate different input devices for data collection in specified situations.
Cameras: used in security systems to detect movement.
Thermometers: used in HVAC systems to measure room temperature.
Pressure sensors: monitor pressure in hydraulic systems, enhancing safety by detecting leaks.
Explain the relationship between a sensor, processor, and output transducer in a control system.
Sensors collect data (e.g., temperature), which is processed by the processor to make decisions. The output transducer then acts on this data, such as turning on a heater if the temperature is too low.
Describe the role of feedback in a control system.
Feedback allows the system to adjust its actions based on outputs. For instance, a thermostat receives temperature feedback and turns the heater off when the desired temperature is reached.
Compare a centrally controlled system with a distributed system.
Centrally controlled systems: have a single point of control (e.g., traditional mainframe systems).
Distributed systems: control is shared across multiple points (e.g., cloud computing), offering flexibility and resilience but with increased complexity.
Outline the role of autonomous agents within larger systems.
Autonomous agents operate independently within systems, making real-time decisions. Examples include automated vehicles in a traffic management system, where each vehicle agent adjusts speed based on surrounding traffic conditions.
Describe the function of an embedded system within control systems.
Embedded systems are specialized computing systems within larger devices (1).
They control specific functions, such as monitoring sensors and executing commands (1).
Used in devices like washing machines and medical devices for reliable automation (1).
Explain how microprocessors interact with sensors in control systems.
Microprocessors receive data from sensors, which monitor environmental changes (1).
The microprocessor processes this data, making decisions based on pre-set conditions (1).
They adjust outputs, like turning on/off lights based on light sensor readings (1).
Evaluate the advantages of using feedback loops in control systems.
Feedback loops allow systems to self-correct, maintaining stability (1).
They enhance accuracy by adjusting outputs based on real-time data (1).
Reduce the need for manual intervention, increasing efficiency (1).
Examples include temperature control in HVAC systems (1).
Discuss the social and ethical implications of implementing surveillance systems with embedded control.
Surveillance systems improve public safety and crime prevention (1).
Raise privacy concerns as continuous monitoring can infringe on personal rights (1).
Data collected may be used improperly, leading to ethical issues (1).
Can impact mental well-being as individuals may feel constantly watched (1).
Implementation should balance security benefits with privacy considerations (1).
Explain the difference between real-time and non-real-time processing in control systems.
Real-time processing responds immediately to input data, essential for time-sensitive applications (1).
Non-real-time processing allows for delays in response, suitable for less critical applications (1).
Real-time systems are used in applications like emergency alert systems, while non-real-time applies to tasks like data backup (1).
