Basic Of PLC Ladder Diagram DVP-PLC Application Manual: Programming

 

Foreword: Background and Functions of PLC
 
PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) is an electronic device, previously called “sequence controller”. In 1978, NEMA (National Electrical Manufacture Association) in the United States officially named it as “programmable logic 
controller”. PLC reads the status of the external input devices, e.g. keypad, sensor, switch and pulses, and execute by the microprocessor logic, sequential, timing, counting and arithmetic operations according the status of the input signals as well as the pre-written program stored in the PLC. The generated output signals are sent to output devices 
as the switch of a relay, electromagnetic valve, motor drive, control of a machine or operation of a procedure for the purpose of machine automation or processing procedure. 

The peripheral devices (e.g. personal computer/handheld programming panel) can easily edit or modify the program and monitor the device and conduct on-site program 
maintenance and adjustment. The widely used language in designing a PLC program is the ladder diagram. With the development of the electronic technology and wider applications of PLC in the industry, for example in 
position control and the network function of PLC, the input/output signals of PLC include DI (digital input), AI (analog input), PI (pulse input), NI (numeric input), DO (digital output), AO (analog output), and PO (pulse output). Therefore, PLC will still stand important in the industrial automation field in the future

The Working Principles of Ladder Diagram 

The ladder diagram was a diagram language for automation developed in the WWII period, which is the oldest and most widely adopted language in automation. In the initial stage, there were only A (normally open) contact, B 
(normally closed) contact, output coil, timer and counter…the sort of basic devices on the ladder diagram (see the power panel that is still used today). After the invention of programmable logic controllers (PLC), the devices displayable on the ladder diagram are added with differential contact, latched coil and the application commands 
which were not in a traditional power panel, for example the addition, subtraction, multiplication and division operations. 

The working principles of the traditional

 ladder diagram and PLC ladder diagram are basically the same. The only difference is that the symbols on the traditional ladder diagram are more similar to its original form, and PLC 
ladder diagram adopts the symbols that are easy to recognize and shown on computer or data sheets. In terms of the 
logic of the ladder diagram, there are combination logic and sequential logic.

1. Combination Logic Examples of traditional ladder diagram and PLC ladder diagram for combination logic: 


The "Basics of PLC Ladder Diagram DVP-PLC Application Manual: Programming" is a specialized guide that provides foundational knowledge and practical insights for programming Delta’s DVP series PLCs using Ladder Logic diagrams. Ladder Logic is one of the most widely used PLC programming languages, and this manual is tailored to help users understand its application in programming Delta PLCs specifically. This guide is ideal for beginners and intermediate users who are either new to PLC programming or seeking to deepen their understanding of Ladder Logic and its applications in industrial automation.

Key Topics and Features

  1. Introduction to DVP Series PLCs: The manual starts with an overview of Delta’s DVP series PLCs, including the range of models available, their unique features, and typical applications in various industries. It describes the hardware architecture, with specific details on the CPU, I/O modules, and memory, providing a foundation for users to understand how the PLC components interact with Ladder Logic programs.

  2. Basic Concepts of Ladder Diagrams: Ladder Logic, a graphical programming language resembling electrical relay logic diagrams, is broken down into its core components. The manual explains the structure of Ladder Logic diagrams, focusing on symbols like contacts, coils, timers, and counters. This section helps readers grasp the visual layout and flow of Ladder Logic, which uses "rungs" to represent different control instructions in a format resembling a ladder.

  3. Programming Environment Setup: The manual guides users through setting up the Delta DVP programming environment, including software installation and configuration. Typically, it introduces Delta’s WPLSoft or ISPSoft software (Delta’s proprietary programming tools) and provides step-by-step instructions for creating, editing, and downloading Ladder Logic programs onto the DVP PLCs.

  4. Basic Ladder Instructions: This section introduces basic Ladder Logic instructions that serve as building blocks for programming. Key instructions include:

    • Contacts (Normally Open and Normally Closed): Used to check conditions and execute commands.
    • Coils: Represent the output elements that control devices (e.g., lights, motors).
    • Timers: Used for time-delay functions, crucial in applications where precise timing is needed.
    • Counters: Count events, pulses, or items passing through a production line. Each instruction is explained with examples, showing how they function within the ladder rungs to control processes.
  5. Advanced Ladder Functions: Beyond the basics, the manual covers more advanced programming functions, including:

    • Mathematical Operations: Add, subtract, multiply, and divide instructions that allow arithmetic operations within the Ladder Logic program.
    • Comparison Functions: Greater than, less than, and equal to conditions that help make decisions based on variable values.
    • Data Handling and Registers: Managing data storage, retrieval, and manipulation, including how to use registers and memory areas for more complex logic. These advanced functions expand the flexibility of Ladder Logic, enabling users to create more complex control logic.
  6. Practical Applications and Examples: The manual includes practical examples of applications where DVP-PLC Ladder Logic can be implemented. These might include:

    • Motor Control: Basic on/off control and sequential motor operations.
    • Conveyor Systems: Applications where sensors and timers are used to manage material handling.
    • Traffic Light Control: Simulated traffic light control programs to illustrate timing and conditional logic. Each example includes an explanation of the program logic, screenshots of Ladder diagrams, and step-by-step guidance on programming in Delta’s environment.
  7. Debugging and Simulation: Debugging is a critical part of PLC programming, and the manual emphasizes how to use the software's built-in tools to simulate and troubleshoot Ladder Logic programs before deploying them to the actual hardware. Users learn to monitor program execution, test scenarios, and identify errors, helping them refine programs for reliable operation.

  8. Networking and Communication: For users looking to integrate their DVP-PLC with other systems, the manual includes an introduction to network communication. It explains how to configure communication protocols such as Modbus, which is commonly used in Delta PLCs, to enable data exchange with other devices like HMIs and SCADA systems.

  9. Maintenance and Best Practices: The manual provides maintenance tips and best practices for developing robust Ladder Logic programs. Recommendations include structuring programs in an organized manner, documenting code, and periodically reviewing programs to ensure optimal performance.

Audience and Applications

This manual is aimed at electrical technicians, engineers, and students who want to learn or enhance their skills in PLC programming using Delta’s DVP series. It serves as a practical guide in both educational and industrial settings, giving users the skills to automate processes in manufacturing, packaging, material handling, and other applications.

Conclusion

The "Basics of PLC Ladder Diagram DVP-PLC Application Manual: Programming" is an essential guide for understanding Ladder Logic programming within the context of Delta’s DVP series PLCs. By covering both basic and advanced programming techniques, the manual equips users with the skills to develop, test, and implement PLC programs effectively, enhancing productivity and reliability in industrial automation.


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