This class will be offered Spring 2010.

Description
The analysis and design of continuous and time-discrete linear feedback control systems with a focus on frequency domain models. Simulation using Scilab/Scicos to design controllers for steady-state error reduction and optimal transient response to varied inputs.
Prerequisites: ENGR 4210 (Linear Systems) or instructor's consent.

Class schedule Spring 2009:
Tue/Thu 9:30 - 10:45 am in 310 Driftmier

• Introduction
• Syllabus
• Books
• Computer Lab
• Grading
• Resources
• Office hours
• Homeworks

Feedback controls are ubiquitous and fundamental to modern engineering. Whether a component in a simple water tank or the sophisticated control systems in aeronautics and robotics, feedback controls make technology safer, faster, more reliable, if not possible in the first place. Feedback systems can also be found in unexpected areas, for example in biology or economics. In this class, we will understand what feedback controls are, and we will learn how to master feedback controls in three major steps:

1. We will learn how to describe and characterize the process to be controlled
2. We will learn how to determine the performance of feedback systems in terms of stability and dynamic response
3. We will learn how to design feedback controls to meet desired performance criteria.

Consistent with this philosophy, there will be quizzes and homeworks. The quizzes can be regarded as short homeworks with a theoretical emphasis. These will allow you to strengthen your understanding of the theory and to assess your preparation for the exams. The larger-scale homeworks involve a strong practical component, either a computer simulation or an actual realization of a feedback control system. These homeworks will allow you to relate theory to the practical implementation of feedback control systems.

Required textbook:
Dorf RC, Bishop RH: MODERN CONTROL SYSTEMS. Pearson/Prentice Hall 2008.
ISBN: 0-13-600152-1

Supplemental reading (optional):
DiStefano JJ, Stubberud AR, Williams IJ: FEEDBACK AND CONTROL SYSTEMS. In: Schaum's Outlines, ISBN 0-07-017052-5
Please be aware that Schaum's book is available on-line on campus: Click here, then click on "linked resources".

Computer lab 310 has Scilab/Scicos installed. You may login with your UGA password.

Scicos/Scilab is Free Software. You may download and install a copy free of charge and with the right to access the source code.

The grade will be based about equally on short quizzes, the homeworks, the midterm exam, the final exam, and the semester project. You will receive score points based on the fill-the-bucket principle, i.e. for each homework assignment and for each test, you accrue score points. Your final grade will be determined from the score you achieved relative to the maximum score achievable. Typically, you receive a maximum of 30-50 points per homework, 100 points for the semester project, a total of 100 pints in quizzes, and 100 points per test, resulting in a maximum score of around 600 points.

We use a fixed grading system. There will be no adjustment based on the overall class performance. The following table shows the percentage of your score you need to reach for a specific grade:

[No items yet]

Office hours TBD or by individual appointment in my office 404 Driftmier.
The best way to contact me is by email.

The individual homework assignments

In the second half of the semester, you will work on a semester project. You may select a project of your choice provided that it has suitable complexity (instructor approval required). You will then complete the project in four phases:

1. Build the process and describe the process mathematically (i.e., determine its transfer function and step response)
2. Design and build a suitable controller. Describe the closed-loop feedback system mathematically.
3. Optimize the controller according to your performance criteria
4. Present your design and demonstrate a working system in front of the class and invited faculty, staff, and students

Here are some interesting links:

• Scilab home page: Scilab is a Matlab replacement, a free open-source program. A particularly good feature is its block diagram simulation toolkit Scicos.
• Octave, another free, open-source Matlab replacement. Octave is more compatible than Scilab, but it does not come with a block diagram module.
• Sage Math, a Mathematica replacement, free and open source. Allows symbolic algebra.
• KTechLab: KTechLab is an Open Source Intergated Design Environment (IDE) for electronic and PIC microcontroller circuit design and simulation.
• LabPlot, a software package for 2D/3D data analysis and visualization. A very modern and powerful package.
• Gnuplot, well-known and widely used data plotting and visualization program. Has somewhat of a learning curve but comes with very powerful features.
• Grace, another data plotting program. This software has a straightforward point-and-click interface and comes loaded with useful features.

ABET EC-2000 Criterion 3 Program Outcomes
a) An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering.
b) An ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data.
c) An ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs.
d) An ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams.
e) An ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems.
f) An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility.
g) An ability to communicate effectively.
h) the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context
i) a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning
j) a knowledge of contemporary issues
k) an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice

Course Learning Objectives Matrix

Course Learning Objectives	Relationship to ABET criteria
Upon succesful completion of this course, the student will be able to	The objective relates to the ABET criteria strongly:3, moderately:2, marginally:1, not at all:0
Prepare a model of the system (block diagram, quantitative description)	a:3, b:0, c:0, d:0, e:2, f:0, g:0, h:0, i:0, j:1, k:2
Quantify stability of a system using various criteria	a:3, b:0, c:0, d:0, e:2, f:0, g:0, h:0, i:0, j:1, k:2
Design a feedback control system to meet given criteria	a:3, b:0, c:3, d:0, e:2, f:0, g:0, h:0, i:0, j:1, k:3
Simulate a feedback control system in software	a:3, b:2, c:1, d:1, e:3, f:0, g:1, h:0, i:0, j:1, k:3
Develop a lab prototype of a feedback control system in a team	a:3, b:2, c:3, d:2, e:3, f:0, g:2, h:0, i:0, j:2, k:3

Overall Course Contribution to Program Outcomes:
a: extensive
b: moderate
c: moderate
d: moderate
e: extensive
f: marginal
g: moderate
h: moderate
i: marginal
j: moderate
k: extensive