Network access protocols for real-time distributed control systems

The concepts for pertinent network parameters are introduced, and an analytical base for system design is established. A simulation methodology has been developed for performance evaluation of real-time control system networks for distributed dynamical processes (e.g. autonomous manufacturing), electric power and chemical plants, and aircraft and spacecraft. The network-induced delays, resulting from data latencies, data loss, and missynchronism between system components, degrade the dynamic performance of the controlled process and are a source of potential instability. The impact of delays induced by different network access protocols on the control system performance is investigated. The results of combined discrete-event and continuous-time simulation are presented.<
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