The HV-100 “Harvey,” specifically designed for moving and spacing plants.
There are many examples of how tech has changed agriculture to improve efficiency. Investment in specialized technology for “doing one thing better” is increasing. More specialized business models have cropped up. With these, specialized skills and equipment supporting IoT wireless data transfer are increasingly important.
More and more, ag businesses have turned to AI, machine learning, and robots for certain necessary tasks. Automated robots use specialization to become proficient at one particular job. One example of this is Harvest Automation’s container-moving robot. Weighing in at just about one hundred pounds, the not-quite two-foot-tall robot works in greenhouse and nursery environments to properly space out container plants.
A useful Infographic covering some of the most-asked questions about PLCs.
FAQs, and an Infographic you can use.
How does a programmable logic controller work?
A PLC works like a computer. The CPU manipulates and processes input signals and executes instructions to control output devices. These are the controllers behind most modern industrial automation.
What are programmable logic controllers used for?
PLCs are used in industrial settings for the control of light fixtures, machinery, and assembly lines. They are also used to control other things such as amusement park rides.
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Yes. There are Relay Output PLCs, Transistor Output PLCs, and Triac Output PLCs. The name of each type of PLC derives from its output. Relay outputs are solid-state outputs or mechanical contacts. Transistor outputs are solid-state switches, but can only handle DC current. Low-power AC loads use Triac outputs. This includes motor starters and lighting.
Mechanical design is another way to categorize PLCs. For example, a “brick” is one type of PLC design. This is a small PLC that includes the CPU, the power supply, and the inputs/outputs in one small case. One type of brick PLC is the DirectLogic 05.
Other PLCs are modular. Modular PLCs have a rack system that has space for different modules. These modules can provide different functions and may act as the PLC’s power supply, I/O, communication interface, or processor.
PLCs use a traditional programming language that mimics circuit diagrams; this is called ladder logic. Other PLCs may use programming languages like Function Block Diagram (FBD), Instruction List (IL), Sequential Function Chart (SFC), or Structured Text (ST). IEC 61131–3 standard defines these languages.
What are the advantages of using a PLC?
There are several. PLCs are easy to install, maintain, and troubleshoot. They are flexible by nature and offer many different operations. Also, they offer a rugged design specifically for industrial processes. Finally, they’re cost-effective.
Are There Disadvantages to PLCs?
The most common disadvantage to PLCs stems from interoperability or lack thereof.
Originally, manufacturers created PLCs using their own proprietary software and programming. When machines did their own thing, separated from the rest of the machinery on the factory floor, that was fine.
But now we have IIoT efficiencies to think about. Machines need to “talk” to each other and share information. Unfortunately, older PLC design doesn’t allow this.
Luckily, industry groups are now working to solve this problem through new forms of open-access middleware like MQTT, AMQP, and CoAP.
If you need a PLC for your industrial processes, talk to the staff at AX Control today. We’re here to help! We offer many brands of PLC systems and replacement parts, including the popular GE Fanuc PLCs.
There are reasons to bring legacy equipment into the Industrial Internet of Things (IIot) Age.
Most manufacturers work with older equipment. A 2017 McKinsey report notes factory machinery and tools have an average age of 11 years. Industrial equipment lasts by design; we even use the term “industrial strength” to attribute higher-than-usual durability and power to everything from bug spray to boots. And when something is still working–and working well–a full upgrade to something new can be a difficult sell.
But many of these older legacy systems were created before the age of connected manufacturing systems, which bring with them a number of added benefits. A connected “smart factory” can mean higher productivity, increased flexibility, a safer manufacturing floor, and lower costs.
One option that bridges the gap between a full upgrade and missing out on all these benefits is to perform a retrofit of connected IoT gateway and data feedback devices. But until recently, this kind of upgrade was a complicated and costly affair. But it doesn’t have to be anymore, and more options are available.
What is the Industrial Internet of Things?
IIoT or the Industrial Internet of Things is the industrial extension of IoT. Automation in a traditional factory improves through the use of interconnected smart sensors. Other instruments work with sensors to take advantage of data collection and analysis. This happens on a networked (Internet) platform.
Options for Connecting your Factory Floor
There are several options now available for connecting your legacy systems to the IoT. These include
Retrofitting IIoT Connectivity. IoT gateways use software, sensors, and industrial-based control systems to provide a simple connection that can send data in real-time.
Using Video Cameras. Video analytics allow cameras to recognize objects, people, or issues on your floor automatically.
Using Edge Devices. Data can be accessed via local devices. This can improve security and provide access to process data more quickly.
Using Biometric Devices. Your employees can become part of your data acquisition through the use of biometric wearables or tags. This works in conjunction with additional upgrades.
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