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The Pendulum Control System can function as a stand-alone control system or it can be interfaced. The Pendulum Control Digital software (PCDS) is supplied with the Pendulum Control system. The PCS consists of a carriage module and control module. It can be used in two different modes, either as an inverted pendulum or an overhead crane. Each mode presents a different and challenging situation that requires a separate approach and solution.
In the first mode, control must be achieved over an inherently unstable system, a problem that is met in ballistics and robotics. In order to balance the pendulum in the inverted position the pivot must be continuously moved to correct the falling pendulum. In the second mode, the carriage module is turned upside down so that the pendulum acts as a crane. The pendulum swings naturally into an equilibrium position with the centre of mass below the pivot. The problem is now to control the linear position of the load, which processes very oscillatory dynamics. Both modes provide the valuable experience in understanding how feedback systems function.
The Controllers included are a linear controller, harmonic controller, Fuzzy controller and a direct digital controller. An extensive help system introduces each and the attempted control mechanism. The linear and the harmonic controllers are attempted controllers. Two solutions to solving the problem are introduced, Fuzzy control and Direct Digital control.
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