DEVELOPING A HYBRID PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC-CONTROLLER PLATFORM FOR A FLEXIBLE MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

In this article, we present the design and implementation of a flexibl e manufacturing system (FMS) control platform based on a programmable logic controller (PLC) and a personal computer (PC)-based visual man-m achine interface (MMI) and data acquisition (DAS) unit. The key aspect of an FMS is its flexibility to adapt to changes in a demanding proce ss operation. The PLC provides feasible solutions to FMS applications, using PC-based MMI/DAS, whereby PLCs are optimized for executing rapi d sequential control strategies. PCs running MMI/DAS front-ends make i ntuitive operation interfaces, full of powerful graphics and reporting tools. Information from the PC can be distributed through a company's local area network or web using client-server technologies. Currently , with the convergence of underlying microprocessor technology and sof tware programming techniques, many users find that PLCs provide a cost -effective solution to real-time control in small-to medium-sized proc ess plants, especially when combined with supervisory PCs using hybrid systems. The major work of this article demonstrates that PLCs are re sponsive to rapid and repetitious control tasks, using PCs that presen t the Bow of information automation and accept operator instructions, thereby providing the user a tool to modify and monitor the process as the requirements change.