Tutorial 1
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QUESTION 1-a (Only ONE will be selected for each set of question)
Many luxury automobiles have thermostatically controlled air-conditioning systems for the
comfort of the passengers. The system starts with the driver setting the desired interior
temperature on a dashboard panel. Then the controller and compressor will try to maintain
the temperature at the desired level.
(a) Draw the functional block diagram of the system and name all the components and
variables involved. Explain how the appropriate control action is determined.
[4 marks]
(b) Despite the advantages of the control system part (a), the system also has disadvantages.
Discuss TWO disadvantages of this type of control system.
[2 marks]
QUESTION 1-b
The role of air traffic control systems is increasing as airplane traffic increases at busy
airports. Engineers are developing air traffic control systems and collision avoidance systems
using the Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation satellites. GPS allows each aircraft to
know its position in the airspace landing corridor very precisely.
(a) Draw the functional block diagram of the system and name all the components and
variables involved. Explain how the appropriate control action is determined.
[4 marks]
(b) Despite the advantages of the control system part (a), the system also has disadvantages.
Discuss TWO disadvantages of this type of control system.
[2 marks]
QUESTION 1-c
Many cars are fitted with cruise control. Cruise control in the car keeps the speed constant
even when we go up a slope or face a head wind. At the press of a button, it automatically
maintains a set speed. In this way, the driver can cruise at a speed limit or economic speed
without continually checking the speed meter.
(a) Draw the functional block diagram of the system and name all the components and
variables involved. Explain how the appropriate control action is determined.
[4 marks]
(b) Despite the advantages of the control system part (a), the system also has disadvantages.
Discuss TWO disadvantages of this type of control system.
[2 marks]
QUESTION 1 Solution:
R(s) C(s)
+
A B C D
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E
(a) Draw the block diagram of a closed loop control system with the components (3
marks)
Explanation (1 marks)
(a) Automobile air-conditions system
R(s) -Desired temp A -Input transducer C -Compressor
E -Temp sensor C(s) -Actual temp
B -Thermostat D -Automobile cabin (plant)
(b) Flight path control system
R(s) -Desired flight path A -Input transducer
E -Global Positioning System C(s) -Flight path C-Ailerons, elevators, and
engine power
B -Autopilot D -Aircraft (process)
(c) Cruise Control System
R(s) -Speed Set by driver A -Input transducer C- Electric motor
E -Shaft Speed Meter C(s) -Shaft Speed
B -controller D -Car Engine
(b)Give TWO any disadvantages of a closed loop system and its explanation
- System may become unstable.
- System become complex and difficult to implement and costly.
