Automation in Environmental

Engineering

dr in. Patryk Wjtowicz

Signals
Signal is a variable that conveys the value
of a parameter (information) between the
elements of a system

Signal types by physical form

General classification of signals

Analogue

Signal
Pulse

Discrete

Analogue signals
Analogue signals are continuous in nature
Analogue signals may vary over some finite
range and may have any value within that
range (determined by a physical
phenomenon)
Most process signals are analogue

Discrete signals
Discrete signals have two or more states.
At any point in time, may only exist as one
or other of those states
Discrete signals are used to convey status
information such as auto/manual, on/off,
open/closed, running/stopped

Analogue vs digital

Pulse signals
Pulse signals consist of trains of pulses, each
pulse being equivalent to a fleeting discrete
signal.
Pulse signals are typically associated with rotary
devices such as turbine meters or agitator shafts
A known number of electrical pulses are generated
with each revolution. Counting of the pulses with
respect to time yields an average shaft speed

Standard signal ranges

Signals have some standard ranges.
Compatibility of input and output signals
enables systems to be configured from offthe-shelf elements

barg gauge pressure

Signal interpretation
Knowledge of the behaviour or calibration
of the elements and of the nature of the
signal is necessary to determine the value
of the parameter being transmitted
Determine temperature reading assuming
linear calibration (see diagram below)

Signal interpretation
Analogue signals have a non-zero lower
limit to their range to enable zero valued
signals to be distinguished from faulty
ones (4 20 mA signal while 0 mA = fault)

Signal processing - Linearity

Signals which are linear are easy to
interpret
In practice non-linear input-output
relationships prevail
A basic strategy of control system design is
to eliminate nonlinearities

Linearization - example

Orifice (ISO 5167)

orifice flow coefficient

mass flow rate

General instrument or function symbols

General instrument or function symbols

contd

Symbols according to DIN 30600 and ISO

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Symbols according to DIN 30600 and ISO

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Symbols according to DIN 30600 and ISO

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