General-purpose controllers

NB1 and NB2

No-tuning process control

The world's most widely-used process control algorithm is the proportional integral derivative (PID) controller. While many more powerful algorithms exist, PIDs are so popular primarily because they are by far the easiest to use.

And yet implementing a PID controller is really not all that easy. It requires the simultaneous optimization of up to three different dynamically-coupled parameters. Tuning any one of them usually upsets the tuning of the others.

Neuroblast presents NB1 and NB2, two revolutionary new controllers that provide powerful control without needing to be tuned. They do not even auto-tune; their processes usually come under control the instant they are plugged in.

Use them to control just about any process for which you would think to use a PID. NB1 and NB2 are for system dynamics governed by first- and second-order differential equations, respectively. Thus, most temperature, level, flow, and many other types of systems would use NB1; most motion problems would use NB2.

As can be seen in several demonstrations by following the links below, their performance is not only tight and precise, but also exceptionally robust to process disturbances — including disturbances caused by the actions of other controllers controlling different aspects of the same system. This robustness makes it very easy for multiple NB1s and -2s to control multivariable processes, all without any tuning. Side-by-side performance comparisons against PIDs and other types of controllers are also shown.

Demo 1   Binary distillation column

Demo 2   Continuous fermentation bioreactor

Demo 3   Inverted pendulum

Demo 4   Ball and beam

Click here to contact Neuroblast about licensing and use of NB1 and NB2.