Development of Re-configurable PID Simulator Based on a Digital Signal Controller for Educational Purposes

Abstract

Under this research, a re-configurable PID simulator has been developed as an experimental setup. The research consists of developing Digital Signal Controller (DSC) based re-configurable controller, computer-based graphical user interface and DC motor platform with an encoder feedback system. The developed system enables learners to easily understand the control characteristics of the DC motor systems under the different controllers and control parameters. The system has two experiment modes as the velocity control and position control. In both modes, the motor can operate according to the static or dynamic input references which are related to the velocity and position of the motor shaft. During the simulations, learners can change PID coefficients and observe the effect of them, how to apply to the system, that will enable learners to understand more easily the control systems were established. Further, apart from tuning the PID coefficients, the system can operate under the different control bandwidths selected by the learners. That will support learners to identify the effect of the control bandwidth and required controller performance based on the applications. The implemented system was tested and validated by conducting several simulations and discussing the obtained results.