Polytechnic upper-class students demonstrated flexible automated process control, performed simulation with data acquisition using advanced process control software, as well as applied programming including sensory techniques, configurations of measuring instruments, automation of open- and closed-loop systems using actuators, sensors and transducers. The focus was on the use of digital and analog input/output with PID feedback control, and the design of user-friendly human-machine interfaces.

This paper presents the technology of integrating automation equipment for use in engineering systems. Results include the students’ design and simulations of complete fully-automated projects involving the human-machine interfacing of both analog and digital sensors, actuators, motors, machines, flexible automation devices, and other material handling systems. Advanced process control software used for programming including sensory techniques—as well as for automating open- or closed-loop systems—with PID feedback control is described.