Procedure
- Create a programmable controller on the design area.
- Define which actuators (elements)should be controlled.
Limit yourself to the fewest possible elements having also a logical relationship to one another such as, for example, all the elements of a given loop. Using multiple controllers is easier than to use fewer but more complex ones. Establish a connection between controller outputs and the elements to be controlled. - Define which sensors are needed for the controller. Establish a connection between controller inputs and the measuring points of the different elements.
- Consider which operating states may come into play for the combination of elements. Only a single state can be active during operation. Create an appropriate state for each operating state. For a solar loop, the operating states could be, for example, as follows: “Downtime” (too little radiation or full tank), “Charge tank”, “Cool down tank” (at night, if the tank gets too hot).
- Use a formula to define the conditions required for a state to be activated.
- Define for each state, which initial values should be assigned to the elements to be controlled.