Post by youssef labib

🚀 When Theory Meets Reality: From Simscape Modeling to Real-Time Motion Control How close can a simulation get to the real world? That was the question my team and I set out to answer during our Automatic Control Systems project. Starting from first principles, we designed and built a complete closed-loop linear positioning system that converts the rotational motion of a DC motor into precise linear displacement using a pulley-driven mechanism. The final prototype is capable of transporting loads of up to 5 kg with a linear speed of approximately 0.45–0.50 m/s. Instead of treating simulation as a separate step, we adopted a Model-Based Design workflow. Using MATLAB Simscape, we developed a physics-based digital model of the system, then performed parameter estimation to ensure that the simulated behavior accurately represented the real prototype. Seeing the simulation closely follow the experimental response was undoubtedly one of the most satisfying outcomes of this project. The heart of the project was the PID controller. Rather than simply tuning gains until the system worked, we analyzed the effect of each control action on the system dynamics, balancing rise time, settling time, overshoot, stability, and steady-state accuracy to achieve a fast and reliable response. This experience transformed PID control from a classroom concept into a practical engineering tool. To complete the closed-loop system, we implemented the controller using Arduino, an H-Bridge motor driver, and an incremental encoder, while applying a Low-Pass Filter to improve measurement quality and reduce sensor noise. We also developed an interactive MATLAB/Simulink HMI, allowing seamless switching between Manual, Automatic, and PID Control modes, with real-time position commands from 0 to 40 cm. This project strengthened my understanding of: Model-Based Design (MBD) Simscape Physical Modeling System Identification & Parameter Estimation PID Control Design and Tuning Embedded Control Systems Signal Processing Real-Time System Validation Finally, I would like to thank my teammates: Andrew Ashraf , Jumana Alaa , natalie sherif and loay hani for their dedication, technical discussions, and teamwork that made this project a success. And also, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to our instructor: mina maher for the continuous guidance and invaluable support throughout this project. 📂 GitHub Repository (Simscape Model • Simulink Model using Arduino • Project Report • Video • Model screenshot) 🔗 https://lnkd.in/eyTyXT8c #ControlEngineering #AutomaticControl #PIDControl #MATLAB #Simulink #Simscape #ModelBasedDesign #SystemIdentification #ParameterEstimation #MotionControl #EmbeddedSystems #Arduino #ElectricalEngineering #Mechatronics #Engineering #ControlSystems

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