ACS124   Modelling, Analysis and Control   (20 credits)

Description

This module will introduce you to the principles of modelling of continuous dynamical systems. You will develop an understanding of the commonality of behaviour of systems irrespective of the physical origin e.g. financial, electrical, mechanical, thermal and chemical. This module also introduces analysis of linear models. It includes a detailed analysis of the dynamical behaviour of 1st and 2nd order systems linking behaviour to physical parameters, e.g. Rise time, settling time, overshoot, steady-state. Damping and damping ratio and resonance. Frequency response is discussed and the state space modelling approach is introduced. We will introduce you to control as a topic by providing examples of open-loop and closed-loop control, and undertake detailed analysis of linear models with a focus on 1st and 2nd order systems. Students are introduced to practical controllers, including PID controllers and performance criteria such as offset, stability, poles and zeros. You will learn about the principles of how to use Laplace Transforms to solve linear differential equations, and for system representation, using transfer functions and block diagram algebra. You will also develop an appreciation of frequency-domain implications of system analysis through the use of Fourier series. MATLAB is used to reinforce the simulation and analysis of all module contents and coursework assignments.

Reading List