外文翻译--可编程逻辑控制器(PLC)-精品.docVIP

PAGE 4 PAGE 5 Programmable Logic Controllers Programmable logic controller (plc) is a solid-state device used to control machine motion or process operation by means of a stored program. The PLC sends output control signals and receives input signals through input/output (I/O) devices. A PLC controls outputs in response to stimuli at the inputs according to the logic prescribed by the stored program. The inputs are made up of limit switches, pushbuttons, thunbwheels. Switches, pulses, analog signals, ASCLL serial data, and binary or BCD data from absolute position encoders. The outputs are voltage or current levels to drive end devices such as solenoids, motor starters, relays, lights, and so on. Other output devices include analog devices, digital BCD displays, ASCII compatible devices, servo variable-speed drives, and even computers. Programmable controllers were developed (circa in 1968) when General Motors Corp, and other automobile manufacturers were experimenting to see if there might be an alternative to scrapping all their hardwired control panels of machine tools and other production equipment during a model changeover. This annual tradition was necessary because rewiring of the panels was more expensive than buying new ones. The automotive companies approached a number of control equipment manufacturers and asked them to develop a control system that would have a longer productive life without major rewiring, but would still be understandable to and repairable by plant personnel. The new product was named a “programmable controller”. The processor part of the PLC contains a central processing unit and memory。The central processing unit (cpu) is the “traffic director” of the processor, the memory stores information. Coming into the processor are the electrical signals from the input devices, as conditioned by the input module to voltage levels acceptable to processor logic. The processor scans the state of I/o and updates outputs based on instruct