Topic 7: Centrally controlled system & Distributed System

Microprocessor

a computer engine that reads data from sensors to perform calculation and process data, and sends commands to effectors like motors or heaters to perform actions.

Pros to microprocessor

• Rapid response to change

• 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

• Alternatives when the working space is dangerous for humans

• Outputs are consistent and error-free.

• Quick data processing

• Fast operations

Cons for microprocessor

• Specialized software for control is high of initial cost

• Probability of computer malfunctions

• Vulnerable to power cut

• Unpredicted events can't be improvised for.

• Ethics issue if the entire control and the decisions are handed over.

Sensor

An automatic input devices that measure and record the environment. The measurement is converted to a digital value and input to the processor.

ADC

Analogue to Digital Converter digitalizes analogue data from sensors, to make it readable for the processor

Output transducer

A device that converts variations in a physical property, quantity or condition, into an electrical signal, or vice versa.

Feedback

Process of sending a portion of the system's output back to its input to compare the actual output with a desired value

Open loop system

System that only looks at the input signal in order to decide what to do without a feedback process

Feedback loop

A system where the output is measured, and that information is fed back to the input to modify or adjust the system's behavior

Embedded system

A computer system with a dedicated function within a larger/smaller mechanical or electrical system, often with real-time computing constraints.

social and ethical consideration

Reliability, Integrity, Security, Privacy, Anonymity, Intellectual property, Authenticity, Surveillance

Centrally Controlled System

A system in which a single entity (as a server or main controller) governs all components and decision-making within the system as a central point.

Distributed system

A system with a network of interconnected computers or nodes that work together to achieve a common goal.

Advantages of a distributed system

Speed from direct communication / More resilient to failures, as other nodes can take over / Improved performance: Tasks can be broken down and executed in parallel

Disadvantages of a distributed system

Difficulty of programming the software / The function depends on network connections / Security is vulnerable as the data can be stolen due to accessibility

Autonomous agents

Self-governing entities with a limited ability to process information from its environment. They make decisions and calculate actions based on their goals.

Role of autonomous agents

Task Decomposition, Decision-Making, Coordination and Cooperation, Adaptation and Learning, Specialization