Controlling pneumatic actuators via an Arduino controller: modeling and visualization approaches

Abstract

This paper considers modern approaches to controlling pneumatic actuators using the Arduino microcontroller. Pneumatic actuators are widely used in automated systems, in particular in production lines, mechatronics and robotics, due to their simplicity of design, speed of response and safety. However, their effective control requires clear coordination of the electronic and pneumatic parts of the system, which involves modeling the dynamics of the actuator, building control algorithms and convenient visualization of the process. Arduino as an open hardware and software platform is an ideal tool for implementing prototypes of control systems. The study analyzes the main types of pneumatic actuators (single- and double-acting), electro-pneumatic valves and position sensors. The methodology for building a model of a pneumatic system in the Wokwi environment and its hardware implementation using Arduino is presented. Particular attention is paid to the development of control algorithms based on PI controllers, feedback logic and time delays that take into account the inertia and compressibility of air. The paper also describes methods for visualizing the states of a pneumatic actuator using the FluidSIM demo interface, as well as simulation in the Wokwi environment, which allows creating interactive monitoring and debugging systems. Examples of integrating pressure sensors, position sensors and displays for reading parameters in real time are given. The purpose of the research is to increase the efficiency, reliability and convenience of controlling pneumatic systems based on inexpensive and open platforms. The results can be useful for engineers, students and developers of automated systems, and will also be used in educational laboratories to demonstrate the principles of operation of pneumatic mechanisms and digital control.