Development of a Programmable Logic Controller Training Platform for the Industrial Control of Processes

This paper presents an interactive, less expensive and more portable Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) training platform for the industrial control of processes. The proposed system employs Delta DVP14SS2 PLC, WPLSoft software, a programming device, switches as inputs and pilot lamps as outputs. The training system gives one the flexibility to wire and program any type of inputs and outputs of one’s choice and can be easily carried in one’s laptop bag giving one the freedom to learn the PLC anywhere at one’s own comfort. The paper is also meant to enlighten beginners and experienced PLC users to build themselves PLC trainers which can enhance their understanding of the theoretical knowledge gained from school. Traffic light automation application is set up to train the Electrical and Electronic Engineering students to measure the applicability of the system. Pre-test and post test are conducted for participating students as a way of measuring the understanding level of the student before and after training. Cost analysis indicates that the individual can build the trainer on one’s own at a cost of $ 214