Automation technology is a versatile and interesting field because it integrates various technical disciplines to create a fully functional system, such as a machine tool. This book examines the technical system as a whole, starting with control engineering as a subfield of automation technology. In addition to controller design – considered “pure, classical” control engineering – the book highlights practical approaches from industry that allow for the optimization of both the controlled system and the sensor technology during the system’s design phase to ensure effective control.

In engineering, the mathematical modeling of physical and technical relationships – along with practical testing – is an important tool for achieving, for example, optimized control systems. This book presents insights derived from these mathematical descriptions and interprets them for practical application.

This book is the English edition of a well-established work in German-speaking countries, featuring numerous examples drawn from industrial practice. It is intended for both engineering students and practicing engineers.

Tobias Loose studied mechanical engineering and completed his doctorate in this field. After several years of industrial practice, he accepted a professorship in automation engineering and mechatronics.