College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Electrical Engineering
Date
6-2023
Primary Advisor
Taufik, College of Engineering, Electrical Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are rugged industrial computers used extensively in many industries for automation and control. EE 435 is a course being developed to introduce students to PLCs. This project will focus on one section of the course, with the primary objective being to control the brightness of an LED based on input received from an ambient light sensor. The control logic will use a PLC with analog input and output modules to interface with the sensor and actuator hardware. The light sensor will output 4-20mA proportional to the intensity of visible light, measured in lumens. The analog input module will serve as an ADC for the controller. Based on the difference in the ambient light and a setpoint stored in the control logic, a 0-10V analog output will be produced from the analog output module, proportional to the number of lumens needed from the LED to reach the setpoint. The 0-10V signal will be converted to a PWM duty cycle to drive the LED. This objective will introduce students to the capabilities for automation offered by PLCs. Upon completion of the primary project objective, the specific components required and the level of detail in the procedure will be specified so that the experiment can be completed in less than 3 hours.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/eesp/591