A PROGRAMMABLE CONTROLLER AS A TOOL FOR AUTOMATING TECHNOLOGICAL PROCESSES

The article examines programmable logic controllers and programmable relays as tools for automating technological processes at industrial enterprises. The architecture of a programmable logic controller is described, including inputs and outputs for connecting measuring transducers and actuators of the controlled object, as well as the principles of program control, input signal reading, and output parameter modification according to the embedded program. The role of system and application software in controller operation is emphasized. A comparative analysis of programmable logic controllers and programmable relays is carried out using equipment produced by the Russian manufacturer OVEN. The advantages of programmable relays in solving tasks that do not require complex control algorithms are identified. The OwenLogic programming environment, which uses the Functional Block Diagram (FBD) language, is considered in detail. Logical functions, arithmetic operations, and functional blocks used in constructing control algorithms are characterized. A practical example of an LED control algorithm based on an RS trigger and counters is analyzed, and the possibility of program simulation in OwenLogic for debugging purposes is demonstrated. The importance of working with modern industrial equipment in the development of professional competencies of students in technical fields of secondary vocational education is emphasized.