jbwraps (Customer) asked a question.
Suggestions on whether a Click Plus would work
New project for sheeter operation.
Currently I am using a click PLC installed about 8 years ago. It does the basic functions of the machine, like switching motors on and off. Has worked great with zero issues. In my current control box I have one Click PLC C0-01DR-D and 4 Red Lion process controllers. I would like to replace it with a Click Plus and add a display. These two items will replace everything. The new project controller will need to control two motors, a process count, total count, batch count, speed units and a pulse signal. It will also need to be able to enter the values on the HMI for various product sizes we make. What are some suggestions? Thanks in advance
Hi jb, which Red Lion units are you using?
Like the other response, I'm curios what the Red Lion controllers are doing.
you say: "The new project controller will need to control two motors, a process count, total count, batch count, speed units and a pulse signal"
Without knowing details that sounds like it could be well within the capability of a CLICK Plus with appropriate modules (though, if they were available and I could afford it I'd use a Do-More BRX)
What sort of control do the motors need, on/off, analog speed control, pulse train or PWM ? I think all could be done with a CLICK Plus with suitable modules
Were some of the Red Lions just doing counting? PLCs are good at counting and the CLICK Plus has high speed capability.
Model LGB.
Okay, I noticed my description was not the greatest.
I will try to describe it better.
I use four Model LGB.
First LGB, Keeps count of length and a piece count. This counter counts the number of inches then stops the feed roller
Second LGB keeps count for the Batch count and total piece count.
Third Keeps count the width of product.
The fourth LGB produces a trigger pulse to drive glue valve.
Currently I am using a C0-01DR-D. All it is doing is turning the feed roller off when the process counter registers the process count. It then triggers a signal to tell the cutter to cut. It cuts in one direction then stops. To cut in the other direction I am using the old fashion method of relays. I would like to program a latching circuit, into the Click, so the relays could be removed. The Click tells the feed roller to stop and the cut motor to start cutting. The motors are just DC brush motors powered by two KBMG drives.
The reason I went this route is because I already had everything but the Click.
I love the Click and was hoping to build upon it.
I do have a Paper sheeter video that shows the operation in motion.
The Click Plus should be able to handle up to 6 high speed counter inputs using a single pulse input. The Red Lion LGB can also use a quadrature signal from an encoder and the Click supports that too, but will only support 4 of them if you don't use the Z (reset) signal wire. With the A, B, Z signals the Click Plus supports (2) quadrature encoder channels.
Will the Click PLC operate its output fast enough to match the performance of the LGB? Probably, if you're already using it to stop the feed roller, you will likely see an improvement in repeatability assuming you get it all programmed correctly. I say that assuming your LGB sends a signal to the Click which then has an output controlling the feed roll.
First find out how the sensors are wired to the LCG and determine if you need the Z signal for any axis.
Your link to the video took me to a Youtube Studio dead end, so I edited the URL and ended up here:
https://youtu.be/tRJ7ZzUAP0g
Is that the right video?
Yes, that is the correct video. I think back about it and I copied the address and not the video link.
The sensor I used are simple encoders that bought on Ebay. 100 Pulse/sec.
Thank you for this answer.
Another question, let's say, for instance, I am processing 1000 pieces of 100" paper, then after that job is finished reenter a new process number, say 75". Is there an easy was to change that number other than entering a new program? On the Red Lion all we need to do is press enter then enter a new number then press enter again. Is that possible with an HMI connected to the click?
The Click PLC seems to be a great product.
My final project will include a gantry system to move the paper over onto a stacker. That system will include at least two motors and several sensors that will need to be controlled as well.
Yes, I would definitely include an HMI. You should be able to make the entries you need in engineering units. If there are multiple parameters associated with each product type, you may want to design a recipe system so the operator just picks one from a list that could be edited and saved. If it is just the length, or length and width, I would not bother with the recipe system. Red Lion makes great HMIs and that is what brand I frequently use with Click PLCs, but A/D C-more are more economical hardware wise and plenty capable enough for this job.
Sales pitch here 😁
Take a look at the new C-more CM5 series we just launched. CM5 Series HMIs
The CM5-T7W would be a great start if you budget allows. If you are okay with a smaller screen, you can go with the CM5-T4W and spend even less. It has the same capability as the 7 inch.
If you want more, there are larger sizes too more features.
They all work seamless with the CLICK PLUS.
Software is free here: https://www.automationdirect.com/support/software-downloads?itemcode=C-more%20CM5%20Series
You can buy and try for 30 days and return if it does not work out for you.
See more on 30-day return policy here: https://cdn.automationdirect.com/static/specs/warrantyinfo.pdf
Sorry for the long delay. Been out of touch with reality for a week.
I will look at the click and Red Lion closer. Building recipes may be a good idea. I will read up on it. I will also look at the CM5 Series.
I'll keep y'all updated.
Thanks