Performance characterization of IP network-based control methodologies for DC motor applications. Part I

Using a communication network, such as an IP network, in the control loop is increasingly becoming the norm. This process of network-based control (NBC) has a potentially profound impact in areas such as: teleoperation, healthcare, military applications, and manufacturing. However, limitations arise as the communication network introduces delay that often degrades or destabilizes the control system. Four methods have been investigated that alleviate the IP network delays to provide stable real-time control. This paper presents the four methodologies, while the companion paper presents a case study on a DC motor with a networked proportional-integral (PI) speed controller with various network delays and noise levels. The four methodologies are gain scheduling middleware (GSM), optimal stochastic methodology, queuing methodology, and robust control methodology. Simulation results show that NBC combined with these techniques can successfully maintain system stability, allowing control of real-time applications.