ACC Automation: PLC & Industrial Control Learning
Practical Tips and Techniques
TwinCAT 3 is a popular automation software suite developed by Beckhoff Automation. We will install TwinCAT 3 on a VirtualBox running Windows 11. TwinCAT3 provides an integrated development environment (IDE) for programming, configuring, and commissioning automation systems. It is ideal for developing and testing your PLC code before purchasing hardware. If you plan to work … Read more
The most commonly asked question is, “What is a PLC?”. A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a computer used to control industrial processes and machinery. It is designed to receive input signals from various sensors, process the information, and then send output signals to handle multiple machines and processes in real time. PLCs are widely … Read more
PLC programming is a valuable skill that can be learned without a significant financial investment. With the EasyPLC learning suite, you can gain hands-on experience with industrial simulation and connect it to PLCs. One such PLC option is the free simulator of the Do-More Designer, which provides a practical platform for learning. We will guide … Read more
Sequential Function Chart (SFC) is a graphical programming language that can be used in Arduino Opta PLCs. It can be used to program sequential control systems in industrial automation applications. It is a part of the IEC 61131-3 standard and is commonly used in programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and other industrial control systems. SFC allows … Read more
The Machine Simulator (MS) is a valuable component of the EasyPLC software suite. It offers a range of built-in machines, including the robot packing machine, which effectively demonstrates various programming techniques. We will use the Click PLC programming software to showcase a sequencer application for this example. In this scenario, the robot is tasked with … Read more
We will demonstrate pallet management logic on the Do-More PLC Simulator and EasyPLC. EasyPLC software suite includes a machine simulator named Machine Simulator (MS). It has a variety of machines that can be programmed and customized. One of these machines is the pallet management machine, which utilizes four conveyor belts, three photocells, and two stops. … Read more
Over the past year, ACC Automation has continued to provide valuable content on PLC learning and industrial control. In 2023, the focus continued with PLC learning with minimum investment. Each year, we like to reflect on the past, present, and future of ACC Automation. The site has been built with the help of its audience, … Read more
A stack light is a valuable tool for displaying the status of a machine or process. This is used to draw the operator’s attention to the operation or condition of the machine. It is usually a vertical tower of colored lights programmed to turn on or off in various combinations to indicate different conditions. For … Read more
This introduction to IoT Industry 4.0 overviews the concepts and practical approach to the Industrial Internet of Things. Industry 4.0 builds on the digital revolution brought by Industry 3.0, which introduced computers like PLCs to the manufacturing floor and took us to the next level of technological advancement. The Internet of Things (IoT) protocol and … Read more
The Machine Simulator (MS) is part of the EasyPLC software suite. It has many built-in machines, like the palletizing conveyor machine, that show different programming techniques. The palletizing conveyor example is one of these machines, and we will use the Click PLC programming software. This will demonstrate a sequencer example. In this case, a box … Read more