Modelling and Controlling of position for electro-pneumatic system using Pulse-Width-Modulation (PWM) techniques and Fuzzy Logic controller

Abstract

The main objective of this paper is to design a low cost electro-pneumatic module which can be used in the industrial automation equipment's, robotic systems and mechatronic applications. Electro-pneumatic module includes four low-cost on/off solenoid valves and double acting cylinder. A Pulse width modulation (PWM) technique was used, which enable the model to correct the control of piston position and then to enable the system to follow the required trajectories accurately in many applications. Thus, it can be a good alternative at a lower cost than the using of proportional valves in the electro-pneumatic applications. A Fuzzy logic algorithm with PD control on the model in Matlab/Simulink environment to adjust the control values was applied. The simulation results and response of model were compared with the results from a previous practical with the similar model and controller but with a proportional valve. Finally, the simulation results showed a good accuracy with the practical results.