An application of a technique for the tuning of multiparameter controllers

At control system implementation some trial-and-error on-line tuning of the controller is often necessary for performance improvement. This procedure is unfortunately difficult to pursue in some cases due to a high degree of controller complexity and therefore a large number of possible tuning parameters. The problem can be obviated through the implementation of a tuning technique based on sensitivity functions. Systematic adjustments are made on the basis of responses obtained from measurements on the system being tuned. No plant model is needed, in fact only the output responses to certain input signals, in our case step signals, must be available. The approach is illustrated by the aid of the DC motor generator pilot plant.