A robust fuzzy control of a nonlinear magnetic ball suspension system

A methodology for the position control of a nonlinear magnetic ball suspension system based on fuzzy if-then rules is presented in this paper. With the experience of stabilizing the magnetic ball at a desired position using a PD controller, a robust complexity-reduced fuzzy controller is designed. Simulations with different initial position conditions of the ball suspension system are provided. Simulation results illustrate that the fuzzy controller is more robust than a classical PD controller in the sense of being able to stabilize a steel ball with a larger range of initial position conditions. Also, the performances of the fuzzy controller is shown to be better than a PD controller.