What is the main goal for this project?

Design and implement a data feedback color management automation system to streamline a small manufacturing process, improving efficiency and color consistency.

PLC Code written and tested to take optical color data and use it to adjust material feed in order to adjust color output of the final product.

Understanding Basic Automation Concepts:

• Outcomes: Gain an understanding of automation systems, sensors, and actuators.
• Deliverables:
• Research summary of different automation technologies (sensors, actuators, etc.).
• Brief overview of automation benefits for small manufacturing lines.

Designing an Automation Process:

• Outcomes: Design a data feedback automation process for a key manufacturing task, such as color variation and adjustment.
• Deliverables:
• Process flow diagram showing the automated steps.
• List of components needed for automation (e.g., motors, PLCs, sensors).

Basic PLC Programming:

• Outcomes: Write and test PLC code to control the automation task.
• Deliverables:
• PLC program to sense and control the material feed in order to adjust color output.
• Test report showing that the system works as expected.

System Setup and Testing:

• Outcomes: Assemble the hardware and software components to create a working automation system.
• Deliverables:
• Physical setup or simulation of the automation system.
• Test results showing how the system performs under different conditions.

Final Report and Presentation:

• Outcomes: Summarize the design process and demonstrate the effectiveness of the basic automation system.
• Deliverables:
• PowerPoint presentation that explains the automation system, components used, and testing results.
• A final report detailing the design, implementation steps, and lessons learned. All design files are to be uploaded to PLAEX SharePoint cloud space, links to be provided.