Automated systems
| English | Chinese | Pinyin |
|---|---|---|
| automated system | 自动化系统 | zì dòng huà xì tǒng |
| sensor | 传感器 | chuán gǎn qì |
| microprocessor | 微处理器 | wēi chǔ lǐ qì |
| actuator | 执行器 | zhí xíng qì |
| feedback loop | 反馈回路 | fǎn kuì huí lù |
Machines that run themselves
- An automated system 自动化系统 senses and responds to its environment with no human intervention.
- Examples: central heating, a greenhouse, a car-park barrier.
- Three parts work together in a repeating loop.
Sensors 传感器, microprocessors 微处理器 and actuators 执行器
- A sensor measures a physical quantity (temperature, light) and sends the data.
- A microprocessor compares the data with stored values and makes a decision.
- An actuator receives a signal and causes an action (opening a valve or window).
- The loop: sensor → microprocessor (compare with stored value) → actuator → the change is sensed again.
A sensor feeds the microprocessor, which compares the reading with a stored value and signals an actuator; the loop then repeats.
An automated control loop
Tap round the loop. An automated system senses, compares against a target, then acts — and because the action changes what it senses, it keeps correcting itself with no human needed.
An automated system is one that:
Automated systems work on their own, sensing data and acting on it.
In an automated system, the microprocessor:
The microprocessor decides; the sensor measures and the actuator acts.
Match each part of an automated system to its role.
Sensor measures, microprocessor decides, actuator acts — the loop runs without a person.
Put the steps of the control loop in order.
Sensor → microprocessor compares → actuator acts; then the change is sensed again.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Advantages: work all day without rest, faster and more consistent than people, can work in unsafe places, fewer human mistakes.
- Disadvantages: expensive to set up, can break down (expert repair), may replace jobs, and can't easily react to a situation they weren't built for.
A camera drone: it can fly itself along a set route to collect data
Automated systems can work 24/7 consistently and safely in dangerous places, but they cost more to set up and cope badly with unexpected situations.
Consistency and safety are the strengths; setup cost and inflexibility (no judgement for the unexpected) are the trade-offs.
Sensors and feedback
- An automated system uses sensors to monitor conditions and a microprocessor to decide what to do.
- A feedback loop 反馈回路 lets it adjust automatically, like a thermostat holding a temperature.
You've got it
- an automated system runs with no human intervention
- sensor (measures) → microprocessor (compares with stored value, decides) → actuator (acts)
- pros: 24/7, consistent, safe in dangerous places; cons: costly, can't handle the unexpected