PLC Data Visualization: A Comprehensive Guide to HMI Screens38

Introduction

A programmable logic controller (PLC) is an industrial computer used to automate processes and machinery. HMI (human-machine interface) screens are used to display and interact with data from PLCs. They provide a graphical representation of the process or machine, allowing operators to monitor and control it. In this tutorial, we will explore the basics of PLC data visualization using HMI screens.

Creating an HMI Project

The first step is to create an HMI project using an HMI software application. Popular HMI software includes InduSoft Web Studio, Wonderware InTouch, and Siemens WinCC. Once you have selected a software, create a new project and configure the project settings, such as the screen size and orientation.

Connecting to a PLC

Next, you need to establish a connection between the HMI screen and the PLC. This is typically done through a serial port, Ethernet, or USB cable. The HMI software will have built-in drivers for connecting to different types of PLCs. Once you have established the connection, you can begin to configure the HMI screens.

Creating HMI Screens

HMI screens are typically divided into multiple pages. Each page can contain different widgets, such as buttons, graphs, and text displays. Widgets are used to represent data from the PLC and allow operators to interact with it. To create an HMI screen, simply drag and drop widgets from the widget library onto the screen.

Mapping PLC Tags

Once you have created your HMI screens, you need to map them to PLC tags. PLC tags are addresses that store data in the PLC. When you map an HMI widget to a PLC tag, the widget will display the data from that tag. To map a widget to a PLC tag, simply select the widget and enter the tag address in the properties window.

Visualizing PLC Data

There are many different ways to visualize PLC data on HMI screens. Some common types of visualizations include:
Text displays: Display text data from PLCs, such as temperature, pressure, or speed.
Graphs: Plot data over time or against another variable, such as temperature vs. time or pressure vs. flow.
Bar charts: Display data as a series of vertical or horizontal bars, such as a bar chart of production output over time.
Pie charts: Display data as a pie chart, such as a pie chart of energy consumption by different departments.
Buttons: Allow operators to interact with the PLC, such as starting or stopping a process or changing a setpoint.

Alarms and Notifications

HMI screens can also be used to display alarms and notifications. Alarms are triggered when a PLC tag reaches a certain value or condition. Notifications are less critical than alarms and are typically used to inform operators of events or changes in the process.

Conclusion

PLC data visualization is an essential part of industrial automation. HMI screens provide a graphical representation of the process or machine, allowing operators to monitor and control it. By creating HMI screens and mapping them to PLC tags, you can visualize PLC data and improve the efficiency and safety of your industrial processes.

2024-12-25

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