Emphasizing a practical approach for engineers and scientists, A First Course in Differential Equations, Modeling, and Simulation avoids overly theoretical explanations and shows readers how differential equations arise from applying basic physical principles and experimental observations to engineering systems. It also covers classical methods for obtaining the analytical solution of differential equations and Laplace transforms. In addition, the authors discuss how these equations describe mathematical systems and how to use software to solve sets of equations where analytical solutions cannot be obtained. Using simple physics, the book introduces dynamic modeling, the definition of differential equations, two simple methods for obtaining their analytical solution, and a method to follow when modeling. It then presents classical methods for solving differential equations, discusses the engineering importance of the roots of a characteristic equation, and describes the response of first- and second-order differential equations. A study of the Laplace transform method follows with explanations of the transfer function and the power of Laplace transform for obtaining the analytical solution of coupled differential equations. The next several chapters present the modeling of translational and rotational mechanical systems, fluid systems, thermal systems, and electrical systems. The final chapter explores many simulation examples using a typical software package for the solution of the models developed in previous chapters. Providing the necessary tools to apply differential equations in engineering and science, this text helps readers understand differential equations, their meaning, and their analytical and computer solutions. It illustrates how and where differential equations develop, how they describe engineering systems, how to obtain the analytical solution, and how to use software to simulate the systems.

Automated Continuous Process Control pulls together–in one compact and practical volume–the essentials for understanding, designing, and operating process control systems. This comprehensive guide covers the major elements of process control in a well-defined and ordered framework. Concepts are clearly presented, with minimal reliance on mathematical equations and strong emphasis on practical, real-life examples. Beginning with the very basics of process control, Automated Continuous Process Control builds upon each chapter to help the reader understand and efficiently practice industrial process control. This complete presentation includes: A discussion of processes from a physical point of view Feedback controllers and the workhorse in the industry–the PID controller The concept and implementation of cascade control Ratio, override (or constraint), and selective control Block diagrams and stability Feedforward control Techniques to control processes with long dead times Multivariable process control Applicable for electrical, industrial, chemical, or mechanical engineers, Automated Continuous Process Control offers proven process control guidance that can actually be used in day-to-day operations. The reader will also benefit from the companion CD-ROM, which contains processes that have been successfully used for many years to practice tuning feedback and cascade controllers, as well as designing feedforward controllers.

Presents the practice of automatic process control along with the fundamental principles of control theory. Includes a generous number of case studies, problems, and examples taken from the authors' experience in industry. Directed to the process industries, discussing process dynamic response in terms of principles of material and energy balances, fluid flow, heat transfer, separation processes, and reaction kinetics. Shows how to develop simple process models, and describes control systems components and feedback. (view table of contents)