Industrial process in laboratory environment

This contribution is focused on technical design, development and operation of real time laboratory model which demonstrates principles of industrial automation. The model uses specific multilevel interconnection (Internet/Ethernet - ASI bus) as an example of a higher level of communication between automation systems. The model consists of three interconnected reservoirs where the fluid levels are controlled. Height of the fluid column is measured by modern capacitive sensors and regulated at a constant level by actuators (pump and valves). Inputs and outputs of the system are connected to the central unit, PLC Simatic S7-200 from SIEMENS. Software tools correspond to the type of PLC, specifically a development environment STEP7 - Micro/Win is used. Data transfer from the central unit to the PC server of LABI system is via the LAN/Ethernet and OPC server software.