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Wisconsin PLC Program Logic Controllers

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Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) were invented in 1968 and have played a prominent role in manufacturing operations ever since.  PLCs are essentially industrial solid-state computers that monitor inputs and outputs, and makes logic-based decisions for automated processes or machines.  Although this technology has been around for sometime, it's still very much of a part of today's industries.

PLC Usage

PLCs can be utilized in manufacturing or retail.  It all depends on the use case.  My experience with PLCs span Tobacco, Gas Pump manufacturing, Pharmaceutical manufacturing, Food processing, Semi Truck parts manufacturing and more.  In some instances I utilized Metler Toledo scales to line workers to perform regulatory cycle testing where weights were important.  I utilized PLCs in the areas of weight, viscosity, temperature, speed and counts.

Wisconsin Customers

Some information I know about Wisconsin is I believe the state was admitted or ratified to the United States around or about 'May 29, 1848'.  Wisconsin is located around latitude '44.5' and longitude of '-89.5' and has a population of roughly '5,893,718 million'.  If I remember correctly the capital is 'Madison' and the largest city is 'Milwaukee'. 

Across industries and applications, Manufacturers use programmable logic controllers (PLCs) to monitor and automate their production processes.  PLCs are ruggedly designed industrial computers that can withstand the conditions of an industrial environment.  With more companies looking to automate their production processes, the rise of data-driven decision making, and evolving IIoT and machine learning applications, the role of PLCs in Manufacturing is becoming increasingly more prominent.

Process Control and Automation

The fundamental role of a PLC is to automate processes by sending programmed control functions to output devices based on signals received from connected input devices through a data aquisition processes.  An input device measures and transmits data from your system, such as a sensor, switch, thermometer, or relay.  In contrast, output devices receive data or commands from the PLC to execute a specific function.  For example, an input device may signal to the PLC that the pressure in a line is too high.  The PLC would then automatically send a programmed command to the output device, which in this scenario is a valve, to open, effectively reducing the pressure.

Other actions controlled by a PLC can include turning on or off a motor to run a conveyor, raising or lowering temperature via a heat exchanger, or displaying an alarm or status on an HMI screen when abnormal system parameters occur.

Data Collection, SCADA and Machine Monitoring

As mentioned above, PLCs monitor and collect data from connected inputs and machinery.  Because of this, software programs, such as SCADA and Machine Monitoring systems, can connect to PLCs to process collected machine data and display useful information, such as production reports, live-trends, alarm notifications, OEE metrics, cycle or batch status, and more.

If at any point you decide to reach to me just know the area codes I am familiar with for Wisconsin are '262, 414, 534, 608, 715, 920'.  For Plc assistance you will find my rates very reasonable for Wisconsin.  Now just keep in mind my time zone is 'Eastern Standard Time (EST)' and I know the time zones in Wisconsin are 'Central Standard Time (CST)' in case you wish to call me.  Anyway let me continue.

With the information visualized, managers and operators can better analyze their production performance and make data-driven decisions to improve efficiency and output.  Additionally, the ability to receive immediate alarm notifications allows operators to respond more quickly to diagnose and remedy problems, which can reduce downtime and costs.

IIoT and Industrial Machine Learning

IIoT applications and industrial machine learning algorithms are new and evolving technologies making their way into manufacturing facilities.  Even with the emergence of these new technologies, PLCs will continue to play an essential role as a processor of real-time line/machine data.

You know, I don't make it out to Wisconsin much but I would like to see the 'Robin' state bird.  I am a little familiar with the Wisconsin 'Wood violet' state flower as well.  However, I do not know much about Wisconsin's state tree the 'Sugar Maple'.  Fishing is fun to me perhaps I would like reeling in the Wisconsin 'Muskellunge' state fish.  Anyway, sorry I went off topic.  Let me continue.

Industrial Machine learning algorithms work by improving themselves through experience.  To gain the necessary experience, machine learning algorithms study production data collected by PLCs to find patterns, which enables the algorithms to make predictions and decisions without needing to be pre-programmed.  The result is a system that can provide predictive maintenance and remaining useful life information to prevent downtime, propose responses to issues that may arise, and improve quality control with actionable production insights.