LessonnotesGH

SHS3 Engineering · Semester 2, Week 18

Automation Technologies

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 3.4.1.LI.2 - Learners should be able to programme PLCs and use them in combination with other components to implement simple industrial automation systems based on design criteria.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

  1. Explain the basic structure of a programmable logic controller (PLC), including its input, output, and central processing unit (CPU) sections, and describe the scan cycle in their own words.
  2. Write and interpret simple ladder logic programs using normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC) contacts, output coils, timers, and counters.
  3. Connect a PLC to simple input devices (e.g., push buttons, sensors) and output devices (e.g., motors, indicator lamps) following a given wiring diagram.
  4. Design, download, and test a PLC program for a simple automation task (e.g., an automated room light controller or a water pumping controller) based on stated design criteria.
  5. Troubleshoot a non-functioning PLC-based automation project by systematically checking wiring, program logic, and component operation, and document the solution.

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Curriculum details

Strand
Automation and Embedded Systems (Strand 4)
Sub-strand
Automation Technologies (4.1)
Content standard
3.4.1.CS.1 - Demonstrate ability to characterise general industrial automation control devices and implement simple automated systems. 3.4.1.LO.1 Explain the roles of motors, fluid power systems, sensors and actuators, switches and relays in industrial automated systems. 3.4.1.LO.2 Design simple industrial automation systems using programmable logic controllers (PLC).
Indicator
3.4.1.LI.2 - Learners should be able to programme PLCs and use them in combination with other components to implement simple industrial automation systems based on design criteria.
Suggested placement
Semester 2, Week 18 (Week 38 of the year)

Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.

Curriculum reference
NaCCA curriculum document, p. 140

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum) 

Talk for Learning: The facilitator provides basic theory in the area of motor starter and control circuits, contactors and relays, switches, fluid power systems, sensors and PLCs and how they are integrated for industrial control. Learners are also introduced to the ladder programming language for PLCs.
Experiential Learning: Field Trip: Learners take a trip to a factory or site with a PLC-based industrial automation system in place and observe the roles of the various components, such as motors, sensors, contactors, relays, and fluid power systems in the respective installation, taking note of the engineering diagrams and other documentation for the site. Learners could also tour the industrial automation laboratory for a similar experience. Project-based hands-on sessions: Learners are taken through simple concepts of industrial automation using simple PLC-based projects such as an Automated door opening system, an Automated room light controller with a bi-directional visitor counter, an Elevator controller, a Water pumping controller, etc. The learners begin with connecting components within the respective projects according to diagrams and downloading programmes onto the PLCs interfaced with the hardware for control. The facilitator explains the function of each component and code (in the case of ladder programming) in the respective project and leaves learners to further explore by manipulating components and observing system behaviour. In some projects, the facilitator may start with the simplest version of the implementation and move through the modifications systematically with the learners to gradually introduce more complex functions or features.
Guest Speaker: Inviting automation engineers to share experiences with learners will enhance the learning experience and make it more relevant.
Self-Directed Learning: Explore online resources: There are many online resources available that can help Learners learn more about PLC programming and automation. Some good options include online tutorials, instructional videos, and forums where learners can ask questions and get feedback from experts. Learners learn additional knowledge and experiences of PLC-based industrial control and present individual reports.
Project-based Experiential Learning: Incorporate hands-on projects that allow learners to apply their CAD skills to real-world design challenges. This can help them develop their problem-solving skills and better understand the design process.
Collaborative Learning: Learners work in groups to design, implement, test and document simple PLC-based automation systems. Each group should assign a specific role(s) to members towards the solution of the challenge. Roles may, for example may, be modelled after typical design and production teams in the industry to give them the relevant exposure and develop team and collaborative skills in them.

Assessment (3.4.1.AS.2). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 1 Recall; Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding; Level 3 Strategic reasoning; Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.

Teaching and Learning Resources:
- PLC Automation Workshop
- Video documentaries,
- Audio-visual equipment
- Laptops with MS Office installed
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