Fpga-based materials testing

Abstract

Techniques are described for a materials test controller that includes a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). The FPGA is configured for acquiring sensor data from sensor device(s) that measure the current state of sample material(s) on which the materials testing is performed. For controlling the actuator device, the FPGA generates a waveform of setpoints; each setpoint represents a desired state of the materials testing. Based on the sensor data, the FPGA calculates process variable(s) for input to a control logic of the FPGA. Using multiple iterations to generate output signals for the actuator device, the control logic receives the process variable(s) and a setpoint of, and based at least on these received inputs, generates an output signal. The output signal of the FPGA causes the actuator device to transition from the current state to a new state that is closer to the desired state as measured by the sensor devices.