FPGA Based Micro-PLC Design Approach

For small, stand-alone control of a single process, microPLCs are more cost effective, compact, and easier to use than PC-based solutions. There have been some studies on the implementation of a control program in FPGA. However most of them concentrated on techniques to convert functional-level control programs into logic description in the form of HDL. So with these approaches it is necessary for PLC user to have design tools to translate, integrate and implement the logic circuit in FPGA. Also manufacturing plant engineers need training on these tools. This paper suggests an approach with which a general microPLC will be implemented inside FPGA. Once FPGA is configured, it will function as microPLC that can be embedded into devices, machines, and systems using suitable interface.