This model forms part of a series of training systems developed in collaboration with the Department of Automation and Information Technology at the Harz University of Applied Studies and Research.
This model provides an introduction to fast, digital real-time control by fuzzy methods.
Fuzzy methods are particularly suitable for processes which mathematics cannot describe adequately or easily. Fuzzy algorithms can offer major advantages as the control strategy is developed, not on the basis of exact mathematical modelling, but on a linguistic description of the process. Additional input variables or conditions can be easily added.
The control model employed is the familiar unstable Ball-on-Beam  system. The aim is to maintain a specific position of the ball by tilting the rocker beam. As well as the mechanical ball-on-beam system with servomotor and sensors, the model also includes a microcontroller board on which the control program runs in real time. The position of the ball is obtained using an optical measuring system; the tilt of the rocker beam is measured by a potentiometer.

Control algorithms are created, simulated and translated into microcontroller code in the user-friendly developer program.
The well-structured instructional material outlines the technological fundamentals and provides a step-by-step guide through the development processes.

- Introduction to fuzzy methods and microcontroller

  technology
- Mathematical modelling of the Ball-on-Beam

  system

- Creating fuzzy strategies
- Implementing fuzzy algorithms on destination

  microcontroller systems
- Adapting the algorithms to non-linear control

  systems
- Parameter studies