Linux-based Automation Controller

Sponsors: Bojo Inc. and TerraLuna LLC

Scope

Iteratively develop a software-configurable general purpose automation controller suitable for use in any application that would normally require dedicated front-panel hardware and PLC. Package and document the project for subsequent re-use in other projects.

This team is a potential vendor for the Cable Assembly Robot, SME Robot Kit, and SME Robot Arm teams, and will be evaluated in part by its ability to supply interim and final products and support to those teams.

Objectives

Design and build enclosure, including arrangements for power, circuit cards, display, and controls. Prefer laser-cut internal structure for for ease of iteration. Design for ease of circuit board replacement

and other maintenance.

Make extensive use of COTS components, such as PC/104 boards and standard microcontrollers.

Use LCD front panel and multifunction display (MFD) buttons for user input.

Enable modular expansion of digital and analog I/O and high-current outputs.

Use a general-purpose set of existing low-level hardware such as AVR microcontroller and open-source ladder logic libraries, and high-level scripting in Python under Linux for application-specific GUI.

Make extensive use of existing open-source libraries such as the ladder logic library at http://cq.cx/ladder.pl.

Use sponsor-provided project management web site (http://t7a.org) for documentation, status, and issue tracking.

Industry sponsors will provide access to lab including workstations, controller boards, pneumatic and electromechanical components and sample applications, programming, project management, and other mentoring, and computing infrastructure support.

Deliverables

Solid models of all mechanical parts.

Source code of any software developed for the project.

Early release of a proof-of-concept controller for use by the Cable Assembly Robot, SME Robot Kit, and SME Robot Arm teams, followup releases as needed.

Demonstrate two sample applications of the controller; the applications must be useful in industry, able to produce a 3-month return on a typical users' investment in the controller. Show financials. These sample applications can simply replicate the SME Robot Arm or Cable Assembly Robot team results, with financials added.

Two complete and identical controllers, installed and working in the sample applications.