Hands on Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Laboratory for an Industrial Controls Course

The instruction of industrial controls employing programmable logic controllers (PLCs) is vital for many industries including manufacturing, mining, and production. PLCs are self-contained industrial grade microcontrollers with user-friendly input and output buffering. They are typically programmed using a visual ladder logic based language. In response to requests from our constituents, we implemented an industrial control course based on both PLC and microcontroller technology. In developing the course, a graduate student worked closely with an industrial control company to develop a series of practical, hands on laboratory exercises to educate students on the fundamentals of PLC application design and implementation. In conjunction with development of laboratory courseware, an Industrial Control Laboratory was developed and equipped with state-of-the-art PLC and control instrumentation and test equipment. This paper discusses the development and content of the laboratory exercises and physical laboratory. We have now taught this course twice and have gathered student perceptions on the quality and utility of the Industrial Control course. Students have requested additional emphasis in this area. We conclude the paper with plans for future course enhancements.