Modeling and Experimental Verification of PLC Codes in a Robotics and Mechatronics Course

We have developed and implemented a discrete event simulation approach for introducing programmable logic controller (PLC) code to undergraduate and graduate industrial and manufacturing engineering and technology students at Drexel University. Students learn the simulation methods necessary to support the modeling and verification of automated processes in a robotics and mechatronics course. Experimental case studies are derived from topics of interest to train manufacturing engineers for performing virtual simulations on PLC modeling systems. The virtual design process is split into three main sub-processes that are recommended to be performed in a hierarchical fashion. These design process structures include the component 3D modeling stage, logical I/O modeling stage, and the cell 3D modeling stage. Both the virtual and physical models provide equivalent results. Course instructions are based on active learning. Tutorials and laboratories assist students in comprehending the simulation methods. The course is taught with the computer-aided simulation software, PLCStudio, to help enhance the combination of passive and active learning in the class.