Implementation of a PC-based operator interface for a paper machine drive (Reprinted from Proceedings of the Pulp and Paper Industry Technical Conference, June 16-20, 1997)

Personal computers (PCs) are increasingly being used in industrial applicat ions. Graphical user interface (GUI) software and Windows(R)-based operatin g systems are proving to be cost effective, rugged, and reliable. Over the past 4 years, these advances have allowed the successful installation of se veral human-machine interface (HMI) systems for paper machine winders (1-3) . The HMI monitors the operation of a winder and provides complete machine control. An operator interface was developed to both monitor and control a multisect ion paper machine drive. The application described highlights the use of a redundant multicomputer network to replace existing bench-board controls. N ew monitoring and control features and a unique reel roll-density-control s cheme were included. The goals achieved were increased paper production and improved control of reel building.