To complete the setup, we integrated several additional modules into the Snapboard system:

• A DC input module with a switching regulator for efficient power delivery.
• A perforated board module for expanding 3.3 V and GND lines to simplify connections.
• A potentiometer module used to set the temperature setpoint (SP).
• An OLED display module for real-time feedback.

The potentiometer allows the user to adjust the desired temperature, while the OLED screen displays the key parameters: Setpoint (SP), Process Value (PV), and Output Power (OP). This provides a compact and practical interface for controlling a soldering iron or a heat insert press in our application.

Conclusion

In this project, we demonstrated an analytical approach to PI controller design using parameter estimation and pole placement, followed by implementation on a digital controller with anti–integral wind-up.

Along the way, we highlighted several key points:

• PI control for first-order systems
• Optimality of the critically damped setting
• A critically damped system does not oscillate, yet overshoot is still possible
• The derivative term is unnecessary and not improve sysytem performance
• Anti–integral wind-up improves PI controller performance