A bit of a math problem


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  1. #1
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    Default A bit of a math problem

    I need to control 4 pumps in relation to the rate that the level of a tank is reducing.

    This could be solved with a derivative but there should be a better solution for an 8-bit humble PIC.

    There is a rate variable that the user sets, 4 outputs (to the pumps) and a sensor for the current water level.

    If the rate the tanks empties is small then one pump operates. If this rate increases then another pump up to four contribute to fill the tank.

    Thanks
    Ioannis

  2. #2
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    Default Re: A bit of a math problem

    number of pumps = ((discharge rate) /(individual pump capacity))+1

    if the rate of change of tank level is not linear with discharge rate then use a lookup table
    Warning I'm not a teacher

  3. #3
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    Default Re: A bit of a math problem

    Thanks Richard.

    My problem is to find that rate of change.

    I have a sensor that gives me the level of the tank. Also a variable 'rate' that is set by the user.

    Now I have to combine these two and decide how many pumps should work at a time.

    Ioannis

  4. #4
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    Default Re: A bit of a math problem

    Take measurement ever XYZ sec.
    Discharge rate is First-Second.
    Eg do something like this:
    Code:
    RunFirstTime:
    ADCIN SensorValue' or whatever
    OldSensorValue=SensorValue' initialization at beginning of program
    return
    
    SubRoutineToRunEveryXYZsec:
    ADCIN SensorValue' or whatever 
    DischargeRate=OldSensorValue-SensorValue
    OldSensorValue=SensorValue
    RETURN
    Depending on how often you call SubRoutineToRunEveryXYZsec you can get quicker response, or better resolution(wider range of values). That all depends how quick your process is.

  5. #5
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    Default Re: A bit of a math problem

    Thanks Richard. I see what you mean.

    Greet help on that small hour that my mind is almost in literary sleep mode!

    Ioannis

  6. #6
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    Default Re: A bit of a math problem

    Another approach would be:
    SELECT CASE Level
    CASE < 80 : HIGH Pump1 : LOW Pump2 : LOW Pump3 : LOW Pump4
    CASE < 70 : HIGH Pump1 : HIGH Pump2 : LOW Pump3 : LOW Pump4
    CASE < 60 : HIGH Pump1 : HIGH Pump2 : HIGH Pump3 : LOW Pump4
    CASE ELSE : HIGH Pump1 : HIGH Pump2 : HIGH Pump3 : HIGH Pump4
    END SELECT

  7. #7
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    Default Re: A bit of a math problem

    Thanks mpgmike. Good one too!

    Ioannis

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