Multivariable Coupled Tanks

The Coupled Tanks Apparatus investigates basic and advanced control engineering principles. This includes the study of static and dynamic systems. It is also an ideal system to use with other control strategies such as fuzzy logic. The shows fluid transport and liquid level control problems in process control. The basic control problem is to regulate the liquid level in one of the tanks by varying the speed of the circulating pump. The user guide includes experiments that cover system modelling using static and transient measurements, steady-state error analysis, transient response studies and Ziegler/Nichols tuning methods. Each tank has a level sensor that gives output signals proportional to the water level in each tank. A scale on each tank allows students to check the level-sensor calibration. A variable-speed pump forces water into the left-hand tank. A valve connects this tank to a second tank, if needed, for two-tank experiments. A rotameter-type flow meter shows the fl ow rate. An electronic fl ow meter measures the fl ow rate. The Multivariable Coupled Tanks Apparatus gives extra experiments. It is similar to the but with a second pump and flow meter. This pump forces water into the right-hand tank and works independently of the other pump. This gives more advanced experiments into the principles of multivariable control (both pumps work together to give the correct levels in the two tanks simultaneously).

Calibration of transducer and actuator circuits

System dynamics in process systems

Design and operation of analogue proportional, proportional + integral, or proportional + integral + differential control controllers

Steady-state errors and closed-loop transient responses

Ziegler/Nichols controllers tuning rules

Multivariable control

Step-change tuning

State feedback

Flow control

The flexible design of the equipment allows the user to develop many other analysis and control exercises to suit their needs. It is good for extended or advanced control experiments, and is ideal for student project work.