Mechatronic Compact Model: Material Control with Quality Inspection

System

The MCS (Mechatronic Compact System) consists of four individual systems, each with a basic mechatronic function. By connecting the systems, the interaction of mechanics, pneumatics, electrics and PLC Programming is taught.

Learning objectives

• Recognition of different Equipments (sensors)
• Mechanical construction of a test station
• Programming a test sequence
• Mechanical design of a swivelling transducer
• Programming a swivelling transducer
• Mechanical design of a measuring process
• Programming a measuring process with analogue value processing
• Mechanical setup of a sorting system with three tracks
• Programming a sorting system with three tracks

Structure

The equipment includes four models:

• Drop magazine with inspection unit: Workpieces are separated from a magazine and placed on a tray. The fill level of the magazine is monitored by a light barrier and the workpiece on the tray is monitored by a microswitch. The Equipment properties of the workpiece are determined by means of an optical and inductive sensor.
• The swivelling transfer unit: Transfers workpieces between two modules with defined Equipment transfer points. A pneumatic swivelling drive, infinitely adjustable up to 180°, transports the workpieces with a vacuum gripper.
• Height measurement: Measures the height of the workpieces and processes the analogue value so that workpieces with an impermissible height are sorted out.
• Sorting in three tracks: Workpieces are guided past three chutes using a linear system with speed controller. A travelling pneumatic output unit transports the workpieces to the chutes according to Equipment type. The fill level of the chutes is monitored by a light barrier.

Method

The device is designed as an experiment for pupils and students. Practical tasks challenge the learner to solve the control or system problem with his programme and by means of mechanical settings.

Target group

Vocational training in industry and students specialising in automation technology. The course offers experiments at an intermediate level for vocational schools and bachelor's programmes.

Previous knowledge

• Theoretical fundamentals of PLC Programming.
• Understanding of production processes

Topics

• Programmes for sequence control
• Creating sequence control programmes
• Difference between manual and automatic functions in programmes
• Planning the control of pneumatic valves
• Collision-safe provision on a shelf.
• Microswitches for position detection
• One-way light barrier
• Optical sensor
• Inductive sensor
• Positioning with microswitch
• Electric drives
• Limit switch with microswitch
• Reversing contactor circuit
• Analogue value processing