This paper describes the design, construction, and evaluation of a learning module on pneumatics, hydraulics, and actuators that incorporates a PLC controlled automated system for water level control. The module was developed to address a knowledge gap between two courses—one on pneumatics/hydraulics and another on automated control—and employs cost-effective hardware and software tools to provide interesting hands-on experiences for college students. The automated control system consists of level sensors, relays, water tank, and a submersible pump along with a motor, DC power supply and programmable logic controller (PLC) to automate the pumping of water. The system is used to show students how to interface I/O devices with a programmable logic controller (PLC) in the context of designing and building a system to control the water level in an overhead storage tank. The system also controls the pump motor on/off switch, thus saving energy. The system is portable and can also be used for K-12 outreach activities. Evaluation results suggest that students learned the subjects well and that the hands on experience helped them to better understand how pneumatic and hydraulic components are used within industrial automated systems.
PROFESSOR AT LONE STAR COLLEGE. TEACHING AND RESEARCCH AT ENERGY AND MANUFACTURING INSTITUTE OF LONE STAR COLLEGE SYSTEMS. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN THE FIELD OF APPLIED TECHNOLOGY.DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTED COURSES FOR THE STUDENTS.
Dr. Sheng-Jen (“Tony”) Hsieh is a Professor in the Dwight Look College of Engineering at Texas A&M University. He holds a joint appointment with the Department of Engineering Technology and the Department of Mechanical Engineering. His research interests include engineering education, cognitive task analysis, automation, robotics and control, intelligent manufacturing system design, and micro/nano manufacturing. He is also the Director of the Rockwell Automation laboratory at Texas A&M University, a state-of-the-art facility for education and research in the areas of automation, control, and automated system integration.
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