Overview

The Control Fundamentals Course Agenda has been developed and refined over two decades and has been presented multiple times at companies around the world. It is aimed at engineers that are using control techniques in their everyday work but need a refresher or have only obtained an introduction to control at university. It is applicable to engineers such as calibration or software engineers that work with control experts. These often need some deeper understanding of the modelling and control methods they are using to ensure successful and efficient implementation.

The course material is motivational to encourage the use of the techniques, rather than dwelling on the background mathematics. The hands-on exercises in MATLAB/Simulink software will help engineers understand the modelling and design techniques and can be retained by the attendees. There will be time in coffee and lunch breaks to talk to the instructors about engineers’ own problems whether they be concerned with modelling, simulation, control, condition monitoring or problems with implementation.

The first day begins with a presentation motivating the need for improved control methods. This is followed by an introduction to modelling and simulation needed for the analysis and design of control loops. The frequency response analysis methods that are often used, including Bode, Nichols and Nyquist methods, are then considered. The hands-on sessions using MATLAB and Simulink reinforce deas. For those that are not familiar with these tools, demonstrations are provided.

The second day moves on to design rather than analysis problems and the first presentation emphasises the importance of feedback control for improving performance, disturbance rejection and reducing the effects of uncertainties. The frequency-domain control design methods are based on the analysis tools described in day one and are introduced. The hands-on sessions provide insights into this type of design process. The importance of control system structures such as feedforward, feedback, cascade and others is then considered, and the improvements in performance are described. The final presentation is on PID controllers. This is of course the most common form of control, and the presentation explains why this control method is so successful and simple to use.

The third day is concerned with more practical aspects including application problems and a look to the future. The important topic of PID controller tuning is covered and a hands-on example provides experience in the methods used. A presentation is included on what makes control engineering difficult. The characteristics of systems that require particular care are noted and the types of solution that should be used are introduced. The problems in implementing controllers are discussed such as PID controller windup and bumpless transfer. Most control loops are now implemented digitally and there is a presentation and hands-on session, on discrete time systems covering topics such as sampling and digital implementation of controllers. The final presentation is on the future directions of industrial control, influenced by developments in AI and Machine Learning that will influence both classical and advanced control designs.

There will be an opportunity throughout the course to interrupt and ask questions or to raise questions at the end of each presentation or during breaks.

Instructors

Professor Michael Grimble

Professor Mike Grimble understands the needs of industry well, having worked for Ciba Geigy and Associated Electrical Industries (later GEC at Rugby). At Imperial College's Industrial Automation Group, he focused on modelling for the control of cold rolling mills. He later established industrial groups at Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Strathclyde where he continues as a Research Professor. His expertise lies in designing high-performance, robust control systems for various industrial applications. His industrial background enriches the industrial training courses with valuable motivation and insights.

Dr Pawel Majecki

Dr. Pawel Majecki conducted his research at the Industrial Control Centre at Strathclyde University before joining Industrial Systems and Control Ltd (ISC), which promotes technology transfer. He has worked with major international companies, applying advanced control methods, including predictive and optimal controls. Dr. Majecki has also led control training courses in the UK, Norway, Italy, Spain, and the USA. His extensive experience with MATLAB/Simulink enhances the hands-on training, helping delegates gain deeper insights into these tools and their application in design methods.

Delegates will find both instructors delighted to answer questions and discuss industrial problems during coffee breaks, lunch breaks, and at the end of the day.

Additional Information

Event Venue

ISC Ltd, Level 2, 36 Renfield Street, Glasgow G2 1LU

Accommodation

Glasgow City Centre offers a wide range of accommodation, you can find our recommendations here.

Course Summary and Agenda (Download PDF)

Timings may change slightly.

Prices and Discounts

• Registration before 7th April 2025: £1,249 + VAT per delegate
• Registration on/after 7th April 2025: £1,407 + VAT per delegate

For two or more places from the same organisation, each additional place is 10% off the single place fee.

Registration

Please complete the Online Registration Form.

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