Definition

PLC is a Programmable Logic Controller. PLC is an industrial computer used as a standalone unit. It can be used in a PLC network to control a process or perform a specific function automatically. To get information from the outside world, such as the temperature of a liquid, level in a tank, speed of an object etc., it uses different connected sensors. The future of industrial automation would be great if automation people use PLC to control processes. The real-world signals are transformed into electrical signals by the external sensors and relayed to the PLC that processes the electrical signals and uses them to complete its pre-programmed task.

Introduction of PLC

PLCs are used in many places, and many of the previous automation processes have been upgraded with the new ones. The upgraded automation has flexibility, and it is simple to alter. This makes it a  more efficient and portable process. It comes in different varieties. The sensors connected to the PLCs are smart than in previous years. PLC has a great impact on the future of industrial automation. it is a programmable logic controller. We can control the devices using automation, and using PLC programs can be logically done. it is designed for multiple input and output arrangements, and it can handle extreme temperatures, vibration and impact.

Let us understand the following topics in the articles:

Latest trends in industrial automation

Scope of plc programming

Future scope of industrial automation

Latest plc technology

New technology in industrial automation

Latest trends in industrial automation

The latest trends in industrial automation include increased use of analytics, growing use of PLCs, PACs, and cloud-based supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. These trends are going to influence the industrial automation control market. These trends will result in an 8% compound annual growth rate for the Asia-Pacific region, but these trends are likely to be seen globally. The automation industry is heading towards a future of unparalleled productivity spurred by superior energy efficiency, better design and operator visualization, and safety standards.

The scope of plc programming

PLCs are continuously growing and evolving to become the best option for a variety of industrial automation applications. The scope of plc programming is increasing rapidly because of greater programming flexibility, scalability, more memory, small sizes, very high-speed (gigabit) Ethernet, and built-in wireless features. PLCs benefit from USB technology and thus make it easier than ever before to get the online program and monitor your control systems. The PLC programming will evolve, and with the availability of small micro and mini USB connectors, we can expect to see this option on more of the smaller PLCs. In the future, PLCs will evolve while adapting technology enhancements in communications, hardware, and software.

Future scope of industrial automation

The future scope of industrial automation would be good enough as every technology is involved with automation techniques. Industrial automation uses various control devices such as PC’s, DCs, and PLCs to control multiple operations of an industry without intervention from humans and to provide automatic control performance. A set of technologies in industries would be implemented to get the desired performance or output, making the automation systems most essential for enterprises. On the other hand, industrial automation involves using advanced control strategies for example:-control hardware devices,  cascade controls and other instruments for sensing the control variables etc.

The latest PLC technology

The Latest PLC technology helps to monitor and control distributed server/multi-user applications. It provides a comprehensive and accurate picture of operations, meeting the demands of multiple stakeholders, including maintenance, engineering, operations, and production information technology (IT). These technologies enable us to take advantage of visualization, mobility and other new technologies, meeting various challenges in the process, discrete applications and delivering critical visibility when we need it.

New technologies in industrial automation

New technology in industrial automation is the reason for success for many companies. From the introduction of collaborative robots, we have seen a vital change in technological developments and it continuously shapes industrial automation. These new technologies in the automation industry will shape the industry in the year ahead. However, the global automation industry has been progressing and enhancing functionalities. Security risk has improved interest in open-source software maintained by an active community eager to fix errors.

Conclusion

The future of PLC in industrial automation has been rising since 1947. Most industries, including automation, use PLCs and install control systems to reduce manual labour and improve precision and efficiency. PLCs are very popular because of their accuracy.