Festo MecLab and Wago E!Cockpit
PLC Control of the Festo Stations
Table of Contents
A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is like the brain of a machine or factory. It's a specialized computer that controls different parts of a system based on inputs it receives.
Before PLCs, relay logic and basic logic gates (like AND and OR gates) were used to control machines. But PLCs took things to a whole new level. They're like super-smart versions of those old methods.
Here's how they work: PLCs take in information from sensors (like switches or temperature sensors) about what's happening in a machine or process. Then, using a program that tells it what to do, the PLC decides how to respond. It can turn motors on or off, open or close valves, or adjust settings—all in real-time.
What makes PLCs so powerful is their flexibility. Unlike relay systems, which required physical rewiring to change how they operated, PLCs can be reprogrammed easily. So, if you need to change how a machine works or adapt it for a new task, you just need to tweak the PLC's program, rather than tearing things apart and rewiring everything.
PLCs can do even more than just basic logic. With their ability to execute complex programs, they can handle tasks like sequencing operations, performing calculations, and coordinating multiple processes simultaneously. This makes them incredibly versatile tools for automation in industries like manufacturing, where they're used to automate production lines, monitor processes, and ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently. They're like the brains behind the operation, making decisions and keeping things running smoothly.
(Source: ChatGPT)
In these practical sessions you will write PLC programs to control one of the Festo stations. Both the conveyor belt session and the handling station session are mandatory. The order in which you carry out the sessions is not important.
There is a set amount of handling and conveyor stations that we have in the lab. Please prepare both, handling and conveyor preparation tasks.
The lab group will be split in two. One half is doing the handling station in lab session 3 and the conveyor station on lab session 4. The other half is doing the conveyor station in lab session 3 and the handling station on lab session 4.
Please prepare all the preparation sections before the actual lab session. This is obligatory for attending and will save you time during the session. Preparation may include drawing diagrams, answering questions, or reading through the basics.
Please make yourself familiar with PLCs and PLC programming:
Introduction:
Learning Outcome
Introduction
The inputs and outputs of the Festo stations can be processed and set using a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). In this module you will:
- create a state machine diagram for the station.
- apply your knowledge of the IEC 61131-3 programming language ST to implement the created state machine
What you need
Software
- e!Cockpit version 1.10.0.1 (pre-installed on lab PC)
Hardware
- Either the conveyor belt or the handling station.