Understanding wireless networked control systems through simulation

Abstract

Wireless is now a pervasive aspect of everyday life; from the Bluetooth module in a mobile handset to broadband wireless networks covering scores of square kilometres. No longer is wireless networking an experimental technology, it has become ubiquitous, and wireless closed-loop control is now being seriously considered for industrial applications. Wireless networking enables the vision of a security enterprise - ease of expansion with minimal implementation and maintenance costs. The bottom line is that wireless networking is cheaper. Computer-based simulation can help develop a thorough understanding of wireless control systems; the network and control system can be configured quickly and the results from modifications to either the protocol or the control strategy can be implemented and tested scientifically, without time-consuming and difficult hardware implementation.