OVERVIEW

The course offers a practical application of concepts and components typical of automation, using a test bench. Sensors, conditioners, actuators, field buses and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) will be studied and used. The PLC will be programmed for the movement of a linear axis with MODBUS communication using sensor acquired  and operator commands.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Ability to integrate measurements and sensors in an automation system, based on a a programmable logic controller.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Ability to identify problems in practical sensors applications, and their calibration. Comprehension of main PLC characteristics and ability to select a device given a specific application.

Basic PLC programming capacity using Ladder and Structured text languages, including routines for BUS communication.

PREREQUISITES

Elements of measurements and informatics will be useful for this course.

TEACHING METHODS

Lectures covering the theoretical and informational aspects of the components, with a focus on practical applications. Group laboratory sessions for the guided development of real applications using experimental test benches. Typical application problems will be analyzed and solved, serving as preparation for the final project. Group laboratory sessions for the implementation of the final project, utilizing the available experimental setups.
To facilitate learning of the programming languages used in the course, exercises will be distributed for students to complete independently or in groups, and a session will be organised to resolve any issues and provide explanations (outside of class hours).
Students will be offered an educational trip to the SPS automation fair, Italy's leading trade fair for automation and digital technology for industry.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Historical PLC introduction; PLC working cycle; PLC interface with sensors and actuators; IEC 61131 programming languages and structure.

Ladder and structured text programming, State machine architecture

Measurement chains for position and force measurements in automation. Sensors calibration.

ISO-OSI BUS structure; BUS communication with  an actuator.

Application to an automation project on a laboratory test setup with PLC sensors, and linear positioner.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Instructor will provide students with proper study material, including lectures presentations and technical material such as data sheets and manuals.
Exercises will be distributed for independent study to learn the language tools used in the course.

LESSONS

LESSONS START

https://corsi.unige.it/en/corsi/8784/studenti-orario

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The examination consists of two parts: 

The first part involves carrying out an automation project assigned by the lecturer using the experimental benches available. The available projects are published on AulaWEB approximately 20 days before the end of the lectures. The choice of project is agreed with the lecturer. 

The project must be accompanied by a descriptive report to be submitted before the examination and will be presented by the group at the examination.

The second part involves a discussion on the implementation of the assigned project. This may be followed by an open-ended question on the course topics.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The practical implementation and discussion of the report will allow for an assessment of the student's ability to synthesize information in order to apply the studied methods to a specific case. Additionally, critical thinking and reasoning skills will be evaluated in assembling the fundamental elements studied in the course to successfully complete the assigned task.

The ability to use appropriate engineering vocabulary, summarise and clearly explain concepts useful in project reports and oral presentations will also be assessed.

The open-ended question on methodology aims to test students' understanding and mastery of the methods covered during the course.

FURTHER INFORMATION