MCS System 3 Stations control via PLC
System
The MCS (Mechatronic Compact System) is comprised of three individual systems, each with a basic mechatronic function. Connecting the systems determines the interaction of mechanics, pneumatics, electronics, and SPC programming.
Objectives
- Recognition of different materials (sensors)
- Mechanical construction of a testing station
- Programming a test procedure
- Mechanical construction of a swing converter
- Programming of a swing converter
- Mechanical construction of a sorting system with three magazines
- Programming of a sorting system with three magazines
Design
The setup includes three models:
- Rotary indexing table with testing unit and display: A testing unit arranged over the rotary indexing table recognises the workpieces as present, black, and metallic. The results can be shown on the display.
- Swing converter: The swing converter implements workpieces between two modules with defined material delivery points.
- Sorting into three lanes: Workpieces are moved past three slides by a linear unit and sorted according to the results of the test.
Method
The device is designed for student experiments. Practical exercises require that the learner resolve the controller or system problem with their own programming and using mechanical configurations. A suggested solution is supplied as a file. The basics of SPC programming and a understanding of production processes are required prior knowledge.
Target Group
Trainees studying industrial business and students of automation engineering are the target group being addressed. The course offers experiments for intermediate learners for trade school and bachelor training.
Add – ons
The system can be expanded using the following components:
- Electric rotary gripper with grip tongs
- Electric rotary gripper with pneumatic vacuum
- Gravity-feed magazine
- Drilling
- Analogue measuring
Topics
- Collision-proof provision of workpieces on a tray
- Micro switch for position recognition
- One-way photoelectric barrier
- Optical sensor
- Inductive sensor
- Positioning of the micro switch
- Electric drives
- Limit switch with micro switch
- Reversing contact control
Experiments require the Siemens software TIA Portal to create programs.The equipment can require additional software modules.