WEEK6
Meeting Purpose: Continue Tutorial to produce bottle and jam process
Discussion:
1. What is a PLC and where is it
commonly use?
A
Programmable Logic Controller, or PLC for short, is simply a special computer
device used for industrial control systems. They are used in many industries
such as oil refineries, manufacturing lines, conveyor systems and so on. Where
ever there is a need to control devices the PLC provides a flexible way to
"softwire" the components together.
2. What are the main and strong
features of a PLC?
PLC
control system is that it regards PLC as control key component, utilize special
I/O module to form hardware of control system with a small amount of
measurement and peripheral circuit, to realize control to the whole system
through programming:
i.
High
Reliability
ii.
Good
Flexibility
iii.
Quality
of Strong Easy-Operating
3. What are the advantages of using
PLCs, what are the disadvantages?
|
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
|
Small physical size & shorter
project time. |
Only closed loop architecture. |
|
Remote control capability. |
Fixed circuit operation |
|
Ease of maintenance and troubleshooting. |
For maximum flexibility and
performance, number of optional modules must be added |
|
Reliability |
Propitiatory – software and parts
only between the same manufacturer |
4. With the latest advancement in
technology are there any need to improve the PLC
Yes
because the latest technology can help the PLC work more efficiently. Also, it
can include greater programming flexibility and ease,
scalability, industrial construction, more memory, smaller
sizes. PLC communications will integrate very high-speed ethernet and
wireless capabilities
1.
Are the new features necessary, there are not just nice to have?
-
The new features necessary as PLC is much better than
microcontroller. This is because PLC is smaller than microcontroller, this will
save some space for the project. PLC also have very high speed (Gigabit) Ethernet
that makes it suitable for the project.
2.
Is it going to be cheaper?
-
Yes, as PLC is much cheaper than microcontroller, the cost also
will be smaller.
3.
Is it robust enough for industrial use?
-
The PLC is robust enough because it has a
better processor power & memory, can handle more current in the I/O ports,
the ports are optocoupled, it is closed architecture, it comes with industrial
certificates, and safety feature.
4.
Is it upgradeable?
-
No because the
setting would be difficult or not possible with an existing PLC.
5.
What about maintenance and update?
-
Updating and maintaining that PLC control
system is a costly and comprehensive project. If anything is done incorrectly,
or even if simply one important step is omitted throughout the project, it can
cost more time and money in setback.
6.
How long before it must be replaced?
-
The batteries that power the processors in
the PLCs are not rechargeable and will need to be
replaced every two to three years.
Conclusion:
we have archieve the innovation at the existing product to develop a product which is PLC replacement
Updated by: Nurul Aini
Good stuff!
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