In the process of designing a system to manage multiple test cells, the question arises regarding the feasibility of connecting multiple HMIs to a single master PLC for independent control of individual test cells. The goal is to have several test cells operating concurrently, each controlled by a separate HMI. While it is common to link duplicate HMIs for the same display, the possibility and advisability of allowing multiple HMIs to control distinct functions simultaneously from a single PLC are being explored. The ideal scenario would involve utilizing a tablet and headless HMI setup, but other options are also being considered. Ensuring a well-designed system is crucial to prevent potential complications as the setup becomes more intricate.
There are no issues with using remote monitoring via an HMI system like Net.Studio. I have successfully connected and controlled systems over the internet using the same screens and functions as the on-site operator. However, caution must be taken when operating remotely as it can be confusing for the on-site operator. In certain situations, remote monitoring can be beneficial, such as allowing the plant manager to observe operations from their office.
GaryS mentioned that he has successfully connected and operated systems over the internet using Net.Studio, a PC-based program that can be developed into a Human Machine Interface (HMI). He emphasized the importance of being cautious when running things remotely, as it can confuse operators who are unaware of someone online. However, in certain cases, he encourages setting it up so that the plant manager can observe the plant's operations from their office. Additionally, he inquired about the possibility of linking multiple HMIs to Net.Studio and running different screens simultaneously.
The performance of the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) will play a crucial role in determining the success of the system. Certain PLC models may have restrictions on the amount of concurrent connections they can handle. Each Human-Machine Interface (HMI) will be running a distinct application project that is tailored to the specific tag list of the test cells under its control.
When creating applications for standard Windows computers, many users are unknowingly utilizing Net.Studio software. This can be seen in the splash screen of Studio 5000 and CCW, both products of Net.Studio. Net.Studio is a commonly used platform for developing HMI applications. The versatility of Net.Studio allows users to customize their applications with various add-ons, making the possibilities endless. One key feature is the ability to communicate with PLCs using driver a. Users can set up a single application to interact with multiple PLCs of different brands, streamlining data logging processes. In terms of development tools, Ingear drivers and Symbol Factory for graphics are popular choices among users. By purchasing a developer license, users have the freedom to create and distribute multiple applications without restrictions. This not only benefits developers but also provides clients with cost-effective backup solutions. The ability to easily transfer and run applications on any Windows computer has proven to be invaluable for many clients in critical situations.
Yes, it is indeed possible to achieve this by utilizing different HMI software options. One approach is to have each HMI communicate directly with a PLC, while another option involves designating one HMI as the master and connecting the others to it through a passthrough or mapping feature. Configuring the displays is key, with each HMI able to access data from shared cells but only control specific ones. For instance, in a scenario with 4 cells and 4 HMI interfaces, all HMIs would show information for all 4 cells, but individual HMIs would only have control over their designated cell. This involves setting up control buttons and edit fields to enable read/write functions for the relevant operations, while restricting others to read-only access.
Given that the PLC is robust, you should be able to program it to receive inputs from multiple HMIs and partition the handling of their different functions. However, it's paramount to ensure each HMI-PLC communication path is isolated from one another, otherwise the operations of the test cells might overlap, causing unexpected mishaps. The idea of using a tablet or headless HMI approach sounds practical. It could make things easier, but still depends on the overall stability of your PLC network. If your master PLC supports concurrent connections well, I’d say it's definitely achievable, but don't forget to put enough thought into overseeing the command pathways and conflict resolution.
This sounds like a fascinating project! It’s definitely possible to connect multiple HMIs to a single master PLC for independent control, but you'll need to ensure that your PLC can handle the communication load and that the software design allows for multi-client support. Using a tablet alongside a headless HMI is a great idea—it could give operators flexibility and ease of access. Just be mindful of potential issues like latency and data conflicts when multiple users interact with the system simultaneously. Implementing a clear user interface design and robust monitoring can make a big difference in managing the complexity while ensuring safety and reliability in operation. Good luck with the development!
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Answer: - Yes, it is possible to connect multiple HMIs to a single master PLC to achieve independent control of individual test cells. This setup allows for separate control of each test cell while sharing a common PLC for coordination.
Answer: - Yes, it is common to link duplicate HMIs for the same display to provide redundancy and ensure continuous operation in case of a failure in one HMI.
Answer: - A tablet and headless HMI setup offer flexibility, mobility, and scalability for controlling test cells. It allows for remote monitoring and control without the need for physical HMI displays at each test cell.
Answer: - Designing the system effectively is crucial to prevent potential complications and ensure smooth operation when connecting multiple HMIs to a single PLC. Proper planning and implementation are necessary to avoid conflicts and errors in control.
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