PWM-FILTERS -DAC

Question

I want to implement a digital controller C(z) on an Arduino Uno (transfer function in the z domain) in order to control a plant

G(s) = 3750/[(s+10)(s+30)(s+100)].

I have implemented G(s) with electronics (op-amps, capacitors and resistances). I want to realize C(z) on the Arduino Uno. The input to the Arduino is the error signal (reference − output of G) and the output of C(z) is the input of G(s). Finally, I will have a closed loop system with negative unit feedback. The reference input is a unit step signal (1 volt).

My problem is: how can I use PWM and filters in place of a DAC?

Answer 1

If you want to use PWM in place of a DAC, the normal thing to do is to use some kind of analog low-pass filter. However, many people skip the filter when the signal is meant for some system that inherently acts as a low-pass. Example: dimming an LED, where the human eye is the filter.

In your case, since your plant looks like a third order low-pass filter with cuts at 1.6, 4.8 and 16 Hz, you can probably skip the filter. If you output on pins 5 or 6, the PWM frequency will be around 980 Hz (exactly: f_CPU/16384). At that frequency, your plant gain relative to DC will be

G(j2π ×ばつ 980 Hz) / G(0) ≈ 1.3 ×ばつ 10⁻⁷ j

Probably low enough to not be an issue.

• Νίκος-Μάριος Κοκολάκης: Generally have you got any other information for this project
• Edgar Bonet: No, and I guess you know the project better than I.