What type of input signal is represented by the function tu(t), where u(t) is the unit step function?

Correct answer: A ramp input

Explanation

This question tests the mathematical representation of the standard test inputs described in Table 1.1, specifically the ramp function.

Other questions

Question 1

What is the fundamental definition of a control system as described in the text?

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT listed as one of the four primary reasons for building control systems?

Question 3

In the context of control systems history, who invented the flyball speed governor to control the speed of steam engines?

Question 4

What is the distinguishing characteristic of an open-loop system according to the text?

Question 5

In a closed-loop system, what is the signal resulting from the algebraic summation of the input signal and the feedback signal called?

Question 6

Under what specific condition is the actuating signal in a feedback control system also called the error?

Question 7

Which of the following are the three major objectives of control system analysis and design?

Question 8

The total response of a linear system is the sum of which two components?

Question 9

What is the condition called when a system's natural response grows without bound, leading to a loss of control?

Question 10

In the antenna azimuth position control system case study, what is the effect of increasing the gain of the signal amplifier on the steady-state error?

Question 11

According to the six-step control system design process outlined in Figure 1.10, what is the first step?

Question 12

In Step 4 of the design process, which physical laws are mentioned as being used to develop a mathematical model for electrical and mechanical systems, respectively?

Question 13

Which standard test input represents a constant command, such as a desired position or velocity?

Question 14

Who is credited with extending the stability criterion from third-order systems to fifth-order systems in 1874, forming what is now known as the Routh-Hurwitz criterion?

Question 15

What graphical technique, developed by Walter R. Evans in 1948, is used to plot the roots of a characteristic equation of a feedback system as a parameter is varied?

Question 16

In the context of the design process, what is a 'compensator'?

Question 17

What is the primary advantage of using a digital computer as the controller in a modern control system?

Question 18

What does a robust design in control systems aim to achieve?

Question 19

In the control systems analysis and design process, what is the purpose of using standard test inputs like steps and ramps?

Question 20

What is the nature of the relationship between force and displacement for an ideal spring component in a translational mechanical system?

Question 21

A temperature control system that senses the difference between the thermostat setting and the actual temperature to open a fuel valve is an example of what type of system?

Question 22

What is the main function of the 'input transducer' in a generic control system block diagram?

Question 23

The development of analysis techniques for feedback amplifiers in the 1920s and 1930s by H. W. Bode and H. Nyquist led to what is currently known as:

Question 24

An example of an open-loop system mentioned in the text is a toaster. Why is it considered open-loop?

Question 25

What is the sixth and final step in the control system design process as shown in Figure 1.10?

Question 26

Which part of a system's total response is dependent only on the system itself and not the input?

Question 27

In the control system for an aircraft's roll angle as described in Problem 3, what component acts as the plant?

Question 28

What is the primary advantage of a closed-loop control system over an open-loop one?

Question 29

What academic background should a student using this textbook ideally have, according to the Preface?

Question 30

In the control system design process, simplifying assumptions are often made when creating the schematic in Step 3. What is the stated reason for this?

Question 31

What is the order of the differential equation d2x/dt2 + 6dx/dt + 8x = 5 sin 3t?

Question 32

The term 'plant' in a control system refers to what?

Question 33

Why is transient response an important design objective for a system like an elevator?

Question 34

According to the history section, the Greeks around 300 B.C. engineered a feedback system to keep a water clock's supply tank at a constant level. What modern device uses a similar principle?

Question 35

What is the primary function of the 'controller' component in a control system block diagram?

Question 36

If a system is stable, its natural response must do one of two things as time approaches infinity. What are they?

Question 37

In the human eye's light-pupil system described in Problem 9, what acts as the sensor?

Question 38

Which analysis and design objective is concerned with the final accuracy of a control system, for example, ensuring an elevator is level with the floor?

Question 39

In Step 3 of the design process, creating a schematic for the antenna azimuth control system, what simplifying assumption is made about the amplifiers?

Question 40

A key benefit of studying control systems for engineering students is that it provides a 'top-down systems approach.' What does this mean?

Question 41

What is the primary trade-off that a control systems engineer must consider between an open-loop and a closed-loop system?

Question 42

What is the function of the summing junction in a closed-loop block diagram?

Question 43

What is meant by 'convenience of input form' as a reason for building control systems?

Question 44

In the context of the history of control systems, 'proportional-plus-integral-plus-derivative' control is also known by what other name?

Question 45

What is the subject of Step 5 in the control system design process?

Question 46

In the automatic volume control system for a motorcycle radio described in Problem 4, what acts as a disturbance?

Question 48

What is the main role of a control systems engineer in the context of a large, multidisciplinary project?

Question 49

In the antenna azimuth position control system, a potentiometer is used as a sensor. What does it do?

Question 50

What is the final analysis and design objective listed in Chapter 1, which is considered a prerequisite for the other two?