Module Details

Module Code: SYST C4605
Module Title: Advanced PLCs
Title: Advanced PLCs
Module Level:: 8
Credits:: 5
Module Coordinator: Frances Hardiman
Module Author:: Stephen Scully
Domains:  
Module Description: The aim of this module is to develop an in-depth understanding and insight to control, analysis, and visualisation of advanced programming methods for dynamic systems using Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human Machine Interfaces (HMI/SCADA), safely and ethically as used in automated processes across a range of industrial applications.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Design, develop and, debug control (PLC) and visual (HMI/SCADA) models using a combination of IEC PLC languages and embedded scripting.
LO2 Employ good and safe practice in control system design and development.
LO3 Set up industrial networks, communication protocols and security.
LO4 Design and develop a PLC/HMI project for a given application.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Additional Requisite Information
No Co Requisites listed
 
Indicative Content
PLC programming languages
Use of different program languages such as Ladder (LAD), Function Block Diagrams (FBD) and Structured Control Logic (SCL).
Advanced PLC Programming
Function Blocks, Data Blocks, comparator operations, safety circuit classification and integration into projects, fail safe operation and safe shutdown of equipment. Analogue input and output modules, Digital to Analogue conversion, Analogue to Digital Conversion, resolution, step outputs, sampling frequency, and associated calculations.
HMI Programming
Design and program a HMI to include multiple screens, buttons, pictures, animations, access levels, alarms and trends.
Interfacing, industrial networking and communication protocols
Introduction to the integration of network protocols into PLC programs.
Automation Project Design
Develop and implement automation project individually/collaboratively (depending on complexity).
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Project30.00%
Practical20.00%
End of Module Formal Examination50.00%

Assessments

Full Time

No Continuous Assessment
Project
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 30
Timing n/a Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
A group/solo (depending on complexity) project based on real-world scenarios.
Practical
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 20
Timing n/a Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
A set of practical exercises to complement the theory elements of the module.
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type Formal Exam % of Total Mark 50
Timing End-of-Semester Learning Outcomes 1,2,3
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
A final assessment to evaluate students' learning.

Part Time

No Continuous Assessment
Project
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 30
Timing n/a Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
A group/solo (depending on complexity) project based on real-world scenarios.
Practical
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 20
Timing n/a Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
A set of practical exercises to complement the theory elements of the module.
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type Formal Exam % of Total Mark 50
Timing End-of-Semester Learning Outcomes 1,2,3
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
A final assessment to evaluate students' learning.
Reassessment Requirement
Repeat examination
Reassessment of this module will consist of a repeat examination. It is possible that there will also be a requirement to be reassessed in a coursework element.

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Workload Category Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact No Description Every Week 3.00 3
Laboratory Contact No Description Every Week 2.00 2
Independent Learning Time Non Contact No Description Every Week 4.00 4
Total Weekly Contact Hours 5.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Frank Lamb. Advanced: PLC Hardware & Programming.
  • Marco Gottardo. Advanced PLC programming.
This module does not have any article/paper resources
This module does not have any other resources
Discussion Note: