Structure and signal flow of pneumatic systems

Pneumatic systems consist of an interconnection of different groups of elements.

This group of elements forms a control path for signal flow, starting from the signal section (input) through to the actuating section (output). Control elements control the actuating elements in accordance with the signals received from the processing elements.

The primary levels in a pneumatic system are:

• Energy supply
• Input elements (sensors)
• Processing elements (processors)
• Control elements
• Power components (actuators)

The elements in the system are represented by symbols which indicate the function of the element.

A directional control valve can be used as an input, processing or control element. The distinguishing feature for the allocation of the individual components to the respective groups of elements is the configuration within a pneumatic system.