Automated Systems (Cambridge International IGCSE Computer Science)
Spec point —
6.1.1· "1 Describe how sensors, microprocessors and actuators can be used in collaboration to create automated systems"
Automated Systems
What is an automated system?
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An automated system is a computer system that collects information and can react and perform tasks based on the data
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Automated systems are made using three components:
- Sensors
- Microprocessors
- Actuators
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A sensor collects information and provides the microprocessor with it as an input
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A microprocessor processes the information and makes decisions based on pre-programmed rules
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An actuator makes physical changes based on instructions given by the microprocessor (outputs)
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Examples of physical changes include:
- Opening/closing a door/valve
- Activating an alarm
Advantages & Disadvantages of Automated Systems
Spec point —
6.1.2· "2 Describe the advantages and disadvantages of an automated system used for a given scenario"
Advantages & Disadvantages of Automated Systems
- There are general advantages and disadvantages of automated systems
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Cost- long-term cost saving | Cost- short-term expensive to set up |
| Safer- timely interventions | Testing- significant testing must be done before being used |
| Safer- keeps humans away from hazardous environments | Security- open to cyber attacks |
| Efficient- materials and resources | Flexibility- will only react to programmed scenarios |
| Consistent- results are repeatable | Maintenance- needs to be well maintained |
| Unethical- can result in major job losses |
- There are also scenarios where specific advantages and disadvantages are important such as:
| Scenario | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Industry | - Increased production - Improved quality control | - High investment costs - Job losses |
| Transport | - Less accidents & traffic congestion - Increased logistical efficiency | - Transportation drivers lose jobs - Technology reliability |
| Agriculture | - Less manual labour - Increased crop yield & resource management | - High start-up costs for equipment and sensors |
| Weather | - Accurate forecasting - Improved early warning systems | - Dependence on accurate sensor data |
| Gaming | - Personalised experience - AI enhanced opponents add challenge | - Reduced creativity & problem solving for players - Repetitive gameplay |
| Lighting | - Increased energy efficiency - Better security with motion-activated systems | - Lack of human control with light adjustments |
| Science | - Faster & more precise - Reduced risk of human error | - High cost development and maintenance - Potential for algorithm bias |
Worked Example A theme park has a game where a player tries to run from the start to the finish without getting wet.
The system for the game uses sensors and a microprocessor to spray water at a player as they run past each sensor.
Describe how the sensors and the microprocessor are used in this system
[8]
Answer
- A motion sensor collects data [1]
- This data is converted to digital using ADC [1]
- The sensor sends data to the microprocessor... [1]
- ... where the data is compared to stored data [1]
- If the value is outside range, water will be sprayed [1]
- A signal is sent to the actuator to spray water [1]
- If the value is within range no action is taken [1]
- This runs in a continuous loop [1]
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