Description
This game will test your ability to effectively tune a PID level controller. You are tasked with tuning a tank level controller so that it will maintain tank level at its setpoint and minimize valve cycling and travel.
The tank is a 100 gal tank that is 100 inches tall. Tank level is controlled by an inlet water makeup valve. This valve is a linear throttle valve and allows inlet flow of 100 gpm when full open, 50 gpm when 50% open, etc. Tank level remains constant when inlet flow matches outlet flow.
There are 2 system tests that can be run to test the valve tuning:
Setpoint Change Test: The tank level is initially stable at a setpoint of 60 inches with inlet and outlet flows matched at 35 gpm. At time 0, the setpoint is changed to 40 inches.
Outlet Change Test: The tank level is initially stable at 60 inches with inlet and outlet flows matched at 25 gpm. At time 0, outlet flow rapidly increases to 75 gpm.
Instructions
The PID controller controlling the makeup valve is preloaded with the default constants. Run each test to see how the controller functions with these default values.
To make changes, input your desired constants and press “Load Constants”. Then run each test again to see the effect of your changes. Each test will result in a score at the completion of the test. You can get a higher score by minimizing the number of valve cycles, valve travel, total time away from setpoint, and how much the tank level differs from the setpoint during the test. Be careful though! If you overfill or empty the tank, you will score a zero for the test.
After both tests are run, you will get an Overall Score, which is a combination of the scores of both tests.The higher the score, the better the controller is tuned to the process.
Good luck!