Module Title: | Advanced PLCs |
Language of Instruction: | English |
Teaching & Learning Strategies: |
This module will be delivered through a mix of lectures, laboratory assignments and projects including a professional write up. It will employ a mixture of active/task-based learning, reflective learning and problem-based learning. |
Module Aim: |
The aim of this module is to develop an in-depth understanding and insight to control, analysis, and visualisation of advanced programming methods for dynamic systems using Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human Machine Interfaces (HMI/SCADA), safely and ethically as used in automated processes across a range of industrial applications. |
Learning Outcomes |
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to: |
LO1 |
Plan, develop and, debug control (PLC) and visual (HMI/SCADA) models using a combination of IEC PLC languages and embedded scripting. |
LO2 |
Employ good and safe practice in control system design and development. |
LO3 |
Set up industrial networks, communication protocols and security. |
LO4 |
Specify and develop a PLC/HMI solution for a given application. |
Pre-requisite learning |
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
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No recommendations listed |
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. |
No incompatible modules listed |
Co-requisite Modules
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No Co-requisite modules listed |
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. |
No requirements listed |
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content |
PLC programming languages
Use of different program languages such as Ladder (LAD), Function Block Diagrams (FBD) and Structured Control Logic (SCL).
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Advanced PLC Programming
Function Blocks, Data Blocks, comparator operations, safety circuit classification and integration into projects, fail safe operation and safe shutdown of equipment. Analogue input and output modules, Digital to Analogue conversion, Analogue to Digital Conversion, resolution, step outputs, sampling frequency, and associated calculations.
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HMI Programming
Design and program a HMI to include multiple screens, buttons, pictures, animations, access levels, alarms and trends.
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Interfacing, industrial networking and communication protocols
Introduction to the integration of network protocols into PLC programs.
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Automation Project Design
Develop and implement automation project individually/collaboratively (depending on complexity).
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Assessment Breakdown | % |
Project | 30.00% |
Practical | 20.00% |
End of Module Formal Examination | 50.00% |
Project |
Assessment Type |
Assessment Description |
Outcome addressed |
% of total |
Assessment Date |
Project |
A group/solo (depending on complexity) project based on real-world scenarios. |
1,2,3,4 |
30.00 |
n/a |
Practical |
Assessment Type |
Assessment Description |
Outcome addressed |
% of total |
Assessment Date |
Practical/Skills Evaluation |
A set of practical exercises to complement the theory elements of the module. |
1,2,3,4 |
20.00 |
n/a |
End of Module Formal Examination |
Assessment Type |
Assessment Description |
Outcome addressed |
% of total |
Assessment Date |
Formal Exam |
Various assessment(s) to reinforce learnings given throughout the semester. |
1,2,3 |
50.00 |
End-of-Semester |
SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment
Module Workload
Workload: Full Time |
Workload Type |
Frequency |
Average Weekly Learner Workload |
Lecture |
12 Weeks per Stage |
3.00 |
Laboratory |
12 Weeks per Stage |
2.00 |
Independent Learning Time |
15 Weeks per Stage |
4.33 |
Total Hours |
125.00 |
Module Delivered In
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