Calculating the time taken for the step response of a system

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the time taken for the output temperature of a first-order system to change by 80% based on a given transfer function. Participants explore the implications of their calculations and the correctness of their approach in the context of a homework problem.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Mathematical reasoning, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a transfer function and attempts to calculate the time for an 80% change in output temperature using the equation y=K(1-e^(-T/t)).
  • Another participant confirms that the form of the solution is correct for the step response but questions the values of K and τ provided by the first participant.
  • A participant expresses confusion regarding discrepancies between their calculated time (0.109 seconds) and a reference booklet's value (0.16 seconds), noting that removing K from the equation yields the latter result.
  • Clarification is provided that the steady state value for y is not 1, implying that 0.8 does not represent 80% of the final value.
  • A later reply indicates understanding after the clarification, suggesting some resolution of confusion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correctness of the calculations or the values of K and τ, indicating that multiple views and uncertainties remain in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved issues regarding the correct values for K and τ, as well as the methodology for determining the time for the output to change by 80%. The steady state value for y is also a point of contention.

MattH150197
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Homework Statement


I have worked out the transfer function of a block diagram in 1st order form To = (K/1+ts) and the 2nd part of the question asks to calculate the time for the output temperature to change by 80% when k1=1, k2=2, k3=3 and k4=4

Homework Equations


where K = (k1k2)/(k1k2k4+k2k3) and t= 1/(k1k2k4+k2k3)

The Attempt at a Solution


So K = 0.2 and t = 0.1 and i thought that the equation to do this would be y=K(1-e^(-T/t)) giving 0.8=0.2(1-e^(-T/0.1)) but this doesn't work can anyone see where I am going wrong? Is the y=K(1-e^(-T/t)) right? Thanks!
 
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Presuming that your transfer function represents the impulse response, then your solution form is correct for the step response.

Check your values for ##K## and ##\tau##. If your k values are as you've specified and the formulas for ##K## and ##\tau## are correct, I don't get the same values that you do.

The final (steady state) value for y will be equal to ##K##. So you're looking for the time when y is 80% of that final value.
 
sorry K4 = 2 and if the solution is correct how come i get T = 0.109 seconds, on the booklet it says it should be 0.16 seconds however it doesn't show the methodology of it, but i noticed taking K completely out of the equation would give that answer, is that just a coincidence
 
MattH150197 said:
sorry K4 = 2 and if the solution is correct how come i get T = 0.109 seconds, on the booklet it says it should be 0.16 seconds however it doesn't show the methodology of it, but i noticed taking K completely out of the equation would give that answer, is that just a coincidence
I didn't say that your solution was correct, I said that its form was correct. I should have been more clear about that, for which I apologize.

The steady state value for y is not 1, so 0.8 does not represent 80% of the final value...
 
ah okay i got it now, thanks!
 

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