Is a PLC the right tool for the job?

[WhinnieThePooh]

Can I outsource the build and programming of the device?
Thanks is advance

If you lived in the Midwest, then I would be happy to do it for you. However, we don't really travel out of Wisconsin.

 

[Lyndon A]

You are asking for advice from a bunch of hammers in this forum, so this project certainly looks like a nail.

Literally what I was thinking!
I've done lots of automation around arduino and similar devices. Not everything needs to run for 15 years on the factory floor or on an oil rig. That said, I have built arduino-based devices that run on large machine tools.

OP: If you're a programmer, then C/C++/Python on an arduino or clone is probably easier for you than PLC ladder logic. If needed, there are ruggedized versions with isolated inputs and high current/relay outputs.

This really isn't a good forum for this kind of discussion so if you'd like to probe further, send me a Private Message and we can talk about what I can build for you, or if you prefer, I'll offer suggestions for DIY.

 

[durallymax]

If this is for fun and you have C/C++ experience, then an Arduino will fit the bill.

If it does need a lot of reliability, replication, or sale to others, I would find a simple mobile machine controller from someone like ifm or TTC. These will generally allow you to use Codesys or C and will interface with mobile equipment better than an industrial PLC. They can be a bit more of a pain to work with due to often needing a harness, but for a product that is to be sold to something in that environment, they are the better solution and require no enclosure.

 

[Zimmer]

https://barth-elektronik.com/en/lococube-mini-PLCs/


Ticks most of the boxes, 12V, free software, vibration irrelevant, tiny, no enclosure needed, even comes with holes for cable ties.

Great little devices in a car, I would think. I used one years ago in a tractor and its never missed a beat.

Software here:

https://micon-l.de/support-4976.html?file=files/miCon-L/miCon-L Installationen/miCon-L_EN_V3.8.1.zip

I think they are programmable in C too, but I only used the above software.

 

[Manglemender]

https://barth-elektronik.com/en/lococube-mini-PLCs/

That looks like the business!

One more thing that no one has mentioned so far is the the OP said the velocity is required as well as position and, to me, that implies some sore of real time or sudo real time capability to integrate position over time. Desired response times have also not been discussed.

Nick