Academic Unit: Padnos School of Engineering
Class Times: 10am-noon pm - Mon, Wed, Fri, first half of semester
Lab Times: Tues, 8-11am, 1-4pm
web: http://claymore.engineer.gvsu.edu
Description: An introduction to the control of machines and processes widely used in
manufacturing. Topics include programmable logic controllers, actuators and
sensor for discrete and continuous systems, structured design techniques,
memory structures, data handling functions, A/D and D/A converters, data
communications, and hierarchical control. The technical issues involved in
implementing control schemes are presented. (3-0-3). Four credits.
Offered spring-summer semester.
Textbooks: Jack, H. Automated Manufacturing Systems; PLCs, 2006, Version 4.8.
Software: Netscape Communicator
Objective: When done the student should be able to design and implement control
systems for typical industrial problems.
Instruction Methods: Lectures, labs, projects and discussions.
Tentative Laboratory Projects:
2. Basic ladder logic design and PLC interfacing - combinatorial press control
3. Intermediate ladder logic design and PLC interfacing - encoder controlled motor
4. Advanced ladder logic design and PLC interfacing - sequential traffic lights
7. PLC Networking and Serial Communications - with DH+ and RS-232C
8. Control of a multistation keytag maker
9. Control of a multistation keytag maker (cont’d)
10. Introduction to embedded controllers
11. Programming embedded controllers
Tests will be given at natural points during the term as new material is covered.
A major final project, involving design, construction and testing, will be
proposed early in the term, and be completed later in the term. Marks will be
some combination of performance and report. A final examination will be
given to conclude the work and test the students global comprehension of the