ELM 5080 - Advanced PLC’s & Automation

Maintenance Electrician Diploma

Course Description:

The Modular Production System (MPS 403-1) is a learning system that covers the entire spectrum from the basics of mechatronics and automation to state-of-the-art, software intensive Industry 4.0 content. This system contains all elements for seamless integration into a learning factory, which might consist of several system building blocks. Each system module represents a process step that is modelled on real-world production.

The system building blocks are equipped with an Ethernet switch and PLC. The PLC program connects the system module with the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and the entire plant. An RFID read/write head is connected to the PLC via an RFID controller. This can read and write the digital product memory in RFID tags of individual workpieces.

 The MPS 403-1 consists of three stations. The MPS 400 Distribution Pro station, the MPS 400 Joining station, and the MPS 400 Sorting Inline station. The first station distributes the workpieces-round jars in different colors-from 3 different stacking magazines. The digital product memory on the RFID tag in the workpiece is initialized. The process task of the second station is joining. Here, either a normal lid or a small microcontroller can be joined to the workpiece. To mount the microcontroller, the vacuum gripper of the Pick and Place unit is exchanged for a parallel gripper. Both grippers are included in the system. In the third station, the color and material of the workpieces are detected with the help of different sensors. They are then sorted on two chutes or passed onto a subsequent station. An AI/ML based algorithm monitors the two chutes with the help of a camera and triggers notifications depending on the available capacity.

The MPS 403-1 subject areas are: Factory Views, MES4 V3, Web Shop, HMI, Smart sensors with IO-link, IIOT-Retrofitting, Artificial Intellagence and Machine Learning, Augmented Reality, Industrial networking with PROFINET, Siemens PLC programming and industrial communication, and RFID.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Manufacturing Execution System (MES)

Learners gain a solid understanding of the different functions of the MES and are able to interpret orders, process, and production

data. They learn the system and communication interfaces and can independently analyze data from the database.

Web shop

 Learned will gain an understanding for the basic terms in the context of e-commerce. They can create and configure new products in

 the web shop.

 HMI

Learner will become familiar with the structure and function of the TIA Portal and WinCC. They can explain the structure and

function of an HMI panel and corresponding applications.

Smart sensors with IO-Link

The learners know the different sensor types and their advantages and disadvantages compared to classic sensors. They are able to

                  Parameterize intelligent IO-Link sensors, load configurations, and integrate them into a PLC project; understand the basic features

                  Of the IO-Link protocol, can integrate IO-Link-based components into the plant network, and display them visually via the HMI.

IIoT retrofitting

The learners are able to derive measures to increase efficiency and the effects on new business models and maintenance strategies.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Learners understand the principles of machine learning and deep learning. Students are able to interpret simple neutral networks

and design, train, and use them independently.

Augmented reality

Learners will be able to use AR technology in a targeted manner in the context of maintenance and access relevant information in

real-time and thus carry out systematic maintenance.

 Industrial networking with PROFINET

Learners will understand the advantages of standard communication through PROFINET.

PLC programming and industrial communication with OPC UA

Learners can independently carry out an extended device configuration and commission a PLC. They learn the common operating

modes and can create a modular program structure using the software.

RFID

The practical training at the MPS 400 prepares learners for the industrial application of RFID technology, empowering them to

 design and integrate RFID for existing production facilities. A major focus is also on the development of troubleshooting strategies.