Self-learn software for automation and process control

Citation

(1998), "Self-learn software for automation and process control", Assembly Automation, Vol. 18 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.1998.03318caf.002

Self-learn software for automation and process control

Self-learn software for automation and process control

Keywords Automation, Fieldbus, Software

A new range of self-learn software packages for industrial automation and process control is being launched in the UK by a new company set-up to assist fieldbus users benefit from the current revolution in open systems industrial integration and digital communications (Plate 1). The LearnWare suite of programs is already in extensive use in Scandinavia, where more than 3,800 new users were registered in 1997 alone.

First products to be launched in the UK will be Automation 2000 and Process Control 2000. Operating in a Windows multimedia environment, these packages offer students individual tuition right through the program, allowing different rates of progress and different lines of study, depending on the student's ability. Animation and simulation make the training very realistic and motivate the student to search for answers using the built-in search engine.

There is also a special program that allows an instructor to monitor students' progress and performance. The packages can also be used for group tuition where the built-in statistical functions help with evaluation and follow-up of each student's progress.

Automation 2000 enables the student to examine a modern manufacturing plant and study the equipment needed for modern automation, to learn about the tasks of the equipment and how each item operates. The student is introduced to logic circuits and shown how to design logic for control applications using a modern PLC. In a simulated application the student learns how to control the flow of cars and pedestrians by programming a PLC to control traffic lights ­ without causing accidents. Sensors and actuators are also introduced as the eyes and the hands of the PLC enabling the student to create an application to sort metallic and non-metallic balls.

Plate 1 Self-learn software for automation and process control

The Process Control 2000 package operates in a similar manner to Automation 2000, but introduces the student to the need for process control with examples of typical industrial processes. The package explains fully the concepts of measurement and control, the closed loop, calibration and tuning and it shows the student how the controller operates in a modern process plant environment.

For further information contact: James Winzar, Fieldbus.com Ltd. Tel: +44 (0) 1329-846166; Fax: +44 (0)1329 512063; E-mail: jamesw@fieldbus.com