Embedded PI-bang-bang curing oven controller

Abstract

Embedded control can prove to be difficult if approached incorrectly. In this paper, the Ziegler-Nichols control parameter determination is applied to a PIC18F4520 microcontroller in order to control a thermal oven used for curing of materials. Classical bang-bang, PI and PID control each have disadvantages, but adding simple fuzzy reasoning to the control eliminates some of these, thereby producing an improved controlled system. Simulated and practical results confirm this approach delivers better performance.