Overview
This lecture introduces automated systems, describing their key components—sensors, microprocessors, and actuators—and explaining how they interact to reduce or eliminate human involvement.
Automated Systems and Their Applications
- Automated systems operate with little or no human interaction.
- Automation is widely used in industry, transport, agriculture, weather, gaming, lighting, and science.
Components of Automated Systems
- Automated systems consist of three main components: sensors, microprocessors, and actuators.
- Sensors collect measurements from the environment and serve as system inputs.
- Microprocessors receive inputs from sensors and process the data using predefined rules to make decisions.
- Actuators receive instructions from microprocessors to make physical changes in the system (e.g., triggering alarms, opening doors, controlling valves).
Feedback Loops in Automation
- Outputs from actuators can influence the next cycle of sensor inputs, creating a feedback loop.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Automated System — a system designed to operate with minimal or no human intervention.
- Sensor — a device that detects and measures changes in environmental conditions.
- Microprocessor — an electronic component that processes input data and makes decisions based on programmed rules.
- Actuator — a mechanism that carries out actions by responding to microprocessor instructions.
- Feedback Loop — a system structure where outputs are used as inputs for further processing.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Watch the next two videos for detailed information on sensors.