Fuzzy-PI control of motion tracking by an electrohydraulic system with multiple nonlinearities

The presence of uncertainties and nonlinearities in electrohydraulic actuation systems demand the use of astute controllers to achieve definitive motion tracking performance. Control methodologies based on mathematical models of such systems have been widely used to address these issues. However, such an approach necessitates an exquisite knowledge of the system parameters which is not always available, especially in harsh industrial environments. In this paper, a model free fuzzy approach has been introduced for tuning the gain parameters of a Proportional-Integral controller widely used in industries. Real-time experiments performed on a laboratory scale electrohydraulic actuation system reveals the robustness of the approach for conventional tracking demands up to high frequencies, even with the use of low cost industry grade proportional valve.Grant: Authors sincerely acknowledge the supports of University Grants Commission, Aeronautical Research & Development Board and Extramural Research & Intellectual Property Rights of India for developing the experimental set up and scholars' assistance.