Desenvolvimento de um Protótipo de Controle de Tanques Acoplados para Ensino de Engenharia

Abstract

The study of control systems in the classroom often does not provide the preparation required for the professional market due to the high level of abstraction, which can distance theoretical knowledge from practical application in real systems. Therefore, the introduction of resources that promote practical learning in the university environment tends to enhance student training. In this regard, the use of didactic kits and pilot plants for teaching control systems can improve practical experience by simulating real systems and enabling the acquisition of skills relevant to the job market. However, didactic kits are often not easily accessible to public educational institutions in Brazil due to their high cost. Thus, a solution that better adapts to the reality of Brazilian students is the development of custom prototypes, taking into account the requirements necessary for study. Given these considerations, this work aims to develop a low-cost water level control system. The setup will consist of two coupled water tanks, a level measurement sensor, a water pump, an Arduino, and a computer with MATLAB. The water will be transferred by gravity from one tank to the other and returned via the pump. A PID controller will be implemented in MATLAB to maintain the water column level in one of the tanks at a desired value. To ensure the developed system performs well, its structure should enable the design and study of PID controllers in real systems while minimizing disturbances and measurement errors that could affect the controller's performance. This approach will contribute to the enhancement of practical learning and professional training in the classes at the Federal University of Uberlândia.