Page 47 - Understanding Automotive Electronics

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2 THE SYSTEMS APPROACH TO CONTROL AND INSTRUMENTATION

time the sensor output voltage is a multiple of the input pressure; the
transducer gain is .02 volts/kPa.
In a control system using this sensor, the signal processing component
should perform an operation on this voltage and generate an output e to drive
2
the actuator. The signal processing is designed to create the correct actuator
voltage at each instant to achieve the desired control. There are many examples of
such a system in automotive electronic systems. One of the most important
points of this analog system is that the system functions continuously with time.
An Example Analog System
Perhaps the most familiar example of an analog electronic system is the
home audio entertainment system. Figure 2.3 depicts such a system that
includes a phonograph record. This example system incorporates a sensor, an
electronic signal process, and an actuator. Although the phonograph has been
replaced by other recording means, it is common enough to be familiar to most
readers. Moreover, it is, perhaps, more easily understood than other recording
media such as magnetic tape or compact discs.

Figure 2.3
Example of an
Electronic System

FPO

34 UNDERSTANDING AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRONICS