VIRTUAL MODELS CONTROLLED VIA INTERNET

KRÁLOVCOVÁ, J.; HERNYCH, M.

Abstract

The article presents virtual models that are possibly controlled via Internet connection. Actually, Faculty of Mechatronics of Technical University of Liberec shifts towards structured study program. The transformation affects many of study subjects. The main change in the education of logic control is the amount of students that have to pass the laboratory training. This year the amount of students is about 100% more than in the last year. The laboratory training is mainly based on the individual work and the prevalent part of programming is performed on virtual models – our several virtual models for logic control were already presented for example within the conference Process Control 2001. The virtual models are directly controlled via real PLC that is connected by serial port RS232. Unlike of virtual models, it is not possible to provide the real controllers to students for home usage. On the other hand, without PLC it is not possible the right employment of virtual models. We decided to enlarge the models and supply the possibility of their control via Internet to allow distant logic control training. As a pilot project the virtual model of crossroads “Salda Square“ was selected. We have proved the idea can be realized and the modified model can be used. Actually new PLC’s TECOMAT TC700, that enable Internet communication, are installed in the laboratory. These PLC’s are intend to be connected distant virtual models.

Coresponding author e-mail: jirina[dot]kralovcova[at]vslib[dot]cz

Session: Control Education