An automation panel is a user interface or control board used to manage, monitor, and control automated systems or machinery. It’s an industrial digital computer ruggedized to withstand harsh industrial environments (e.g., extreme temperatures, humidity, electrical noise) and is used for automation in factories, assembly lines, and other industrial applications.
Core Components of automation panel
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) – Hardware device which can be preprogramed or custom programmed.
CPU (Central Processing Unit) – Executes the control program.
Power Supply – Powers the PLC system.
Input/Output Modules (I/O) – Interface for sensors (input) and actuators (output).
Programming Device – Used to write and upload programs (often a PC with special software).
Key Functions of an Automation Panel
01
Control
Allows operators to start, stop, and regulate machines or processes.
02
Monitoring
Displays real-time data like temperature, pressure, speed, and system status.
03
Protection
Includes safety mechanisms like circuit breakers, overload relays, and alarms.
04
Communication
Interfaces with other systems using protocols (e.g., Modbus, Ethernet/IP, Profibus).
05
Read Inputs
from sensors, switches, etc.
06
Process Logic
based on the program written in ladder logic or other languages.
07
Control Outputs
to activate devices like motors, valves, lights, etc.