Programmable Logic Controller
Programmable Logic Controller
Controller
Vincent L Dsouza
Assistant Professor
NMAMIT Nitte.
What is PLC?
Programmable Logic Devices (PLD) are programmable systems and are generally
used in manufacturing automation to perform different control functions, according to
the programs written in its memory, using low level languages of commands.
Three types of PLDs are being employed in mechatronics systems.
1.Microprocessor
It is a digital integrated circuit which carries out necessary digital functions to process
the information obtained from measurement system.
2. Microcomputer
It uses microprocessor as its central processing unit and contains all functions of a
computer.
3. Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
It is used to control the operations of electro-mechanical devices especially in tough
and hazardous industrial environments.
The programmable logic controller is defined as a digital electronic
device that uses a programmable memory to store instructions and
to implement functions such as logic, sequencing, timing, counting
and arithmetic words to control machines and processes.
PLCs are generally used for incorporating automation in open
loop systems where processes are to be performed in a sequential
manner.
PLCs are used for automation of assembly lines in industries.
AND OR NOR
NAND XOR
Fig: Switches controlling a solenoid
Fig: Shop door system
Latching and Internal Relay
There are situations where it is necessary to hold a coil energized, even when the input
which energized it ceases.
A latching relay maintains either contact position indefinitely without power applied to
the coil.
It is a self-maintaining circuit, in that after being energized, it maintains that state until
another input is received.
Internal Relays
Internal relays are often used when there are programs with multiple input conditions.
These relays do not receive signals from the outside world nor do they physically exist.
These behave like relays with their associated contacts , but in reality are not actual
relays but simulation by the software of the PLC.
An output controlled by two input arrangements Starting of multiple outputs
Sequencing
There are situations where outputs are required in a sequence, with switch
from one output to another being controlled by sensor
Timers
These also do not physically exist.
They come in many varieties and increments.
The most common type is an on-delay type.
Counter
They are simulated counters and
they can be programmed to count
pulses.
Typically these counters can count
up, down or both up and down.
Down counter counts from present
value to zero.
Up counter counts up to a preset
value
Data Handling
The operations that may be carried out with a
PLC on data words normally include:
1. Moving data
For data movement the instruction will contain the
move data instruction , source address of the data &
destination address of the data.