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Control Systems and Sensor Applications

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
10 views17 pages

Control Systems and Sensor Applications

Uploaded by

vidhya
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

CHAPTER 3

1. (a) Describe how touch sensors are used as part of a control system in nuclear power plants.[2]
2.

Describe how infrared sensors are used in burglar alarm systems.

3.

Weather forecasting makes use of computer models.

Analyse the effectiveness of computer models for producing weather forecasts.[[8]


4. Most control technology systems use actuators and sensors.
(a) Describe the purpose of an actuator[2]

(b) Describe how an electromagnetic field sensor works when used in a car park control technology
system.[2]
(c) Describe how an ultrasonic sensor works when a driver is parking a car.[2]

5. Computer models are often used to run simulations when designing a nuclear power plant.
(a) Describe the benefits of using simulations in this scenario.[4]
b. (b) Describe the drawbacks of using simulations in this scenario.[4]

6. Describe what is involved in data logging.[4]


7. Justify the use of Information Technology for monitoring the environment.[8]
8. A computer-controlled traffic light system controls the flow of motor vehicles and pedestrians.
Describe the inputs, processing and outputs involved in this system.[8]
9. Jose has a greenhouse to grow his plants. He lives in a country which has a warm climate so the
greenhouse does not need a heater but has microprocessor controlled windows and a
temperature sensor.

10. Jose has a greenhouse to grow his plants. He lives in a country which has a warm climate so the
greenhouse does not need a heater but has microprocessor controlled windows and a
temperature sensor.

(a) Describe how the sensor represents the temperature so the computer can read the data.[1]
(b) Complete this pseudocode algorithm to show the processing which takes place to control
the temperature of the greenhouse.
(c) Discuss the advantages and disadvantages, to Jose, of using microprocessor control in this
scenario.[8]
11. Schools often use computerised weather stations to collect data, rather than requiring their
students to do it manually. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of schools using
monitoring technologies rather than students taking readings manually.[8]
12. Describe the inputs, processing and outputs in a microprocessor controlled burglar alarm
system.[6]
13. Many houses in cooler countries have central heating systems. In a central heating system,
microprocessors are used to control the pump which sends water from the boiler to the
individual heaters.

Complete the pseudocode algorithm to show the processing which takes place in this
microprocessor-controlled central heating system. The algorithm must prevent attempting to switch
the pump on when it is already on and attempting to switch the pump off when it is already off. You
may assume temperature is the variable representing the actual temperature of the house and
preset represents the required temperature of the house.
14. A farmer is concerned that the chemicals he is using to improve his crops are seeping into the
local river. He has asked a local conservation group to investigate if this is the case. They will be
using a computer and one set of sensors to monitor the level of pollution.

List examples of sensors the group will use and describe how they will be used with the computer to
monitor the pollution level.
15. Sensors are used in monitoring systems to measure physical variables. It is important that
sensors are calibrated before use.
(a) Describe, in detail, these sensors and give an appropriate use for each. Each use must be
different.

Humidity

Sound
(b) Explain the importance of calibration.[2]

(c) Describe the differences between one point calibration and two point calibration.[5]
16. company has been asked by a government to construct a nuclear reactor. A computer model
will be created before the reactor is built.
Explain why a computer model is needed in this scenario.[5]

17. A microprocessor-controlled car park barrier is used to allow cars to enter a car park. When a
car approaches the barrier, the barrier automatically rises to allow the car to enter. It does not
lower until the car is safely clear of the barrier system. There is a light sensor and light beam
source immediately before the barrier. No tickets are issued by the system. The system operates
continuously while it is switched on.
Complete this pseudocode algorithm to describe the processing involved. Your pseudocode
algorithm should include IF…THEN statements.

18. Computerised weather stations are used to monitor a number of analogue atmospheric
variables. Describe how three of these variables are collected and what needs to happen to the
data before it can be used by a computer[4]
19. Computers are often used, together with sensors, to control devices in the home. Evaluate, by
weighing up the advantages and disadvantages, the use of control technology in the home.[6]

Common questions

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Touch sensors in nuclear power plants are used for precise control and monitoring within control systems. They are crucial for human-machine interfacing, allowing operators to interact with systems efficiently and safely. By providing immediate feedback and requiring minimal physical force, they enhance the operational efficiency and reduce strain on operators, which in turn reduces the likelihood of human error that could lead to potential safety incidents.

In Jose's greenhouse, the microprocessor-controlled system enhances plant growth management by automating the regulation of environmental conditions such as temperature. The system uses temperature sensors to monitor conditions and microprocessors to control windows, ensuring optimal air circulation and temperature. This prevents heat stress on plants in a warm climate and reduces manual oversight by maintaining ideal growing conditions autonomously.

Computerised traffic light systems improve urban traffic management by using real-time data to adjust signal timing and improve traffic flow efficiency. They mitigate congestion, prioritize emergency vehicles, and enhance pedestrian safety. However, their impact can be limited by outdated infrastructure and dependence on accurate data streams. While they enhance traffic management significantly compared to static systems, they are not immune to failures from technical glitches and require regular updates and maintenance to stay effective.

Actuators are critical components in control technology systems as they convert electrical signals into physical movement. They enable systems to execute actions based on processed inputs from sensors and computerized instructions. By providing mechanical action (e.g., opening a valve, moving a lever), actuators bridge the digital and physical realms, facilitating automated control over various processes, from manufacturing lines to climate control systems.

A computer-controlled burglar alarm system operates by using sensors as inputs (e.g., infrared, motion detectors) to detect unauthorized presence. The processing unit, which includes a microprocessor, evaluates sensor signals; upon detecting an intrusion, it triggers outputs such as alarms, lights, or notifications to authorities. This automation improves security by providing immediate awareness and reducing response times to potential burglaries.

Computer models in weather forecasting simulate atmospheric conditions using mathematical algorithms to predict future weather. They are effective in improving prediction accuracy by processing vast amounts of historical and current weather data to generate forecasts. However, their effectiveness is limited by the complexity of weather systems and the quality of initial data inputs. The models excel in predicting large-scale patterns but can struggle with localized and rapid changes due to inherent unpredictability in weather patterns.

One-point calibration involves adjusting a sensor at a single known value, assuming linearity across the measurement range, which is simpler but less precise. Two-point calibration involves adjusting the sensor at two known points, providing a more accurate calibration by correcting for both offset and slope errors, reducing measurement inaccuracies. Calibration is crucial because it ensures sensor accuracy and reliability, which is essential for obtaining correct data in monitoring systems.

The use of simulations in designing a nuclear power plant offers several benefits, including cost savings, risk reduction, and the ability to test various scenarios without physical constraints. Simulations allow engineers to model potential problems and optimize designs prior to construction. However, drawbacks include the reliance on the accuracy of the models and data inputs; if the models are flawed or incomplete, the simulations could lead to incorrect conclusions and potential safety risks if implemented in real-world scenarios.

Computerized weather stations in schools offer advantages such as continuous and accurate data collection, minimal human error, and the ability to engage students with real-time data analysis. However, disadvantages include reduced hands-on learning opportunities that develop practical skills, potential overreliance on technology, and the costs associated with equipment maintenance and updates. Teachers need to balance these factors with educational goals to effectively integrate technology into curricula.

A farmer using computer and sensor systems to monitor river pollution faces challenges such as ensuring sensor accuracy and placement, interpreting complex data, and maintaining equipment in varied environmental conditions. However, these systems significantly aid environmental conservation by providing detailed, real-time data on pollution levels, enabling timely interventions, enhancing regulatory compliance, and contributing to global environmental databases for further research and policy development.

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