Page 53 - Modern Control Systems

Section 1.8 The Future Evolution of Control Systems 27
devices is to reduce the effects of wind intermittency and the effect of wind direc-
tion change.
The role of control systems in green engineering will continue to expand as the
global issues facing us require ever increasing levels of automation and precision.

1.8 THE FUTURE EVOLUTION OF CONTROL SYSTEMS

The continuing goal of control systems is to provide extensive flexibility and a high
level of autonomy. Two system concepts are approaching this goal by different evolu-
tionary pathways, as illustrated in Figure 1.22. Today's industrial robot is perceived as
quite autonomous—once it is programmed, further intervention is not normally re-
quired. Because of sensory limitations, these robotic systems have limited flexibility in
adapting to work environment changes; improving perception is the motivation of
computer vision research.The control system is very adaptable, but it relies on human
supervision. Advanced robotic systems are striving for task adaptability through en-
hanced sensory feedback. Research areas concentrating on artificial intelligence, sen-
sor integration, computer vision, and off-line CAD/CAM programming will make
systems more universal and economical. Control systems are moving toward au-
tonomous operation as an enhancement to human control. Research in supervisory
control, human-machine interface methods, and computer database management are
intended to reduce operator burden and improve operator efficiency. Many research
activities are common to robotics and control systems and are aimed at reducing im-
plementation cost and expanding the realm of application. These include improved
communication methods and advanced programming languages.
The easing of human labor by technology, a process that began in prehistory,
is entering a new stage. The acceleration in the pace of technological innovation in-
augurated by the Industrial Revolution has until recently resulted mainly in the
displacement of human muscle power from the tasks of production. The current

High • •
Fixed automation Intelligent systems
Extensive flexibility
and autonomy
Improvements:
Improvements:
Robotics • Sensors • Vision
• Vision • Human-machine
i • • Languages interface
Artificial
• Supervisory
intelligence
control
Digital control
Power tools
systems
Mechanical
master/slave
Unilateral
l Hand tools manipulators
manipulators Control systems
FIGURE 1.22 O—— (programmable)
Future evolution of Low Extended tools
control systems Low High
and robotics. Flexibility