PLC Memory Control for Logistics Robot Position Interlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing logistics robots in industrial sites face frequent interruptions and collisions due to the lack of effective Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) operation technology for interworking with peripheral equipment, making it difficult to determine the cause of interruptions and affecting smooth component transport.
Innovation Solution
A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) operating system that manages PLC memory values for each movement position of a logistics robot, utilizing a server to trace control histories, recognize equipment operation states, and ensure smooth interworking by setting and updating PLC memory values based on real-time positions and control histories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PLC operation technology is not implemented for each movement position, then the system complexity is reduced, but interruption events occur frequently due to interference and collision with peripheral equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into multiple PLC nodes, each responsible for specific movement positions of the logistics robot. Each PLC node independently manages peripheral equipment at its designated position, enabling localized control decisions that prevent interruptions without requiring a completely complex centralized system.
Solution Approach 2:
The PLC operation system pre-sets control parameters and interlock conditions for each movement position before the logistics robot arrives. This preliminary configuration allows the system to automatically handle equipment interlocks and potential collisions before they occur, improving reliability without adding operational complexity during runtime.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If PLC memory values are not traced and monitored, then the system operation is simpler, but it is difficult to determine the cause of interruption events
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where PLC memory values are continuously traced and monitored at each movement position. This feedback system tracks the state of peripheral equipment and logistics robot positions, enabling automatic detection of interruption causes by comparing expected versus actual system states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control history tracing system as an intermediary layer between the PLC nodes and the central management. This intermediary captures and stores control data from each PLC node, making it easier to detect and analyze interruption causes without requiring direct complex monitoring of all system components.
3Productivity
If PLC operation control is implemented for each movement position, then smooth operation and interworking with peripheral equipment is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the PLC operation system with universal, standardized interfaces and protocols that can be applied across all movement positions. This multi-functionality allows the same PLC architecture to handle different peripheral equipment types (conveyors, elevators, doors, intersections) without requiring entirely separate control systems for each, thus improving productivity while limiting complexity growth.
4Measurement precision
If real-time PLC memory value input and tracing is implemented, then equipment operation state recognition is improved, but the system requires more complex infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical monitoring systems with electronic PLC memory value tracing and digital communication. Instead of using physical sensors and mechanical switches to detect equipment states, the system uses PLC memory variables that are automatically updated and traced by the server, achieving precise equipment state recognition through software-based monitoring rather than complex hardware infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a system for operating a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) for each movement position of a logistics robot, and a method thereof. A system for operating a PLC for each movement position of a logistics robot according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a logistics robot configured to supply a necessary component for each process at an industrial site; a PLC which is installed in each process and controls one or more connected equipment; and a server which allocates a transport path of a component to the logistics robot, controls an interworking operation of the equipment based on a movement position of the logistics robot through an input of a PLC memory value of the PLC, traces a control history of each equipment, and recognizes whether the equipment is normally operated and the input of the PLC memory value is omitted.