PID

Proportional Integral Derivative

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What is Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) control?

Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) control is a method used to control systems, like keeping the temperature of an oven steady or the speed of a motor constant. It uses three calculations – proportional, integral, and derivative – to make sure the system behaves the way we want it to.

How a PID controller works

A PID controller works by constantly checking how a system is performing compared to a desired goal (called the setpoint). It then makes adjustments based on:

The current difference between the setpoint and the actual value.

The sum of all past differences.

The rate at which the difference is changing.

When is a PID controller used?

A PID controller is used whenever precise control of a system is needed, such as in temperature control, speed control of motors, and maintaining pressure in a system.

Types of PID controllers

  • Standard PID Controllers: Use all three calculations (P, I, D) to control the system.
  • PI Controllers: Use only proportional and integral calculations.
  • PD Controllers: Use only proportional and derivative calculations.
  • P Controllers: Use only proportional calculations.

Examples of PID controllers in practice

Keeping room temperature steady.

Maintaining a constant speed.

Keeping the temperature consistent during baking.

Commonly asked questions about PID and PID controllers

A PID valve controls the flow of liquids or gases by adjusting its position based on PID calculations, ensuring the flow rate remains stable and meets the desired setpoint.

The proportional part of PID control is calculated using the formula: 

P = Kp × e(t),

where Kp​ is the proportional gain, and e(t) is the error at time t (the difference between the setpoint and the actual value).

A PID control loop is a system where the PID controller constantly monitors the process variable, compares it to the setpoint, and adjusts the process to minimize the difference, creating a continuous loop of monitoring and adjusting.

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