1. Centralized control and networking
Current PLCs have gone beyond the scope of logic control. With the development of semiconductor technology, large-scale integrated circuit technology, and communication technology, PLCs that used to only perform stand-alone control are now being integrated with traditional PLCs, capable of not only handling logic but also performing process control and data acquisition. Therefore, future PLCs will develop towards large-scale distributed, networked, and centralized control.
2. Motion control and distributed control
PLCs initially evolved from logic control to process control, which is the traditional PLC control method. Now, PLCs are moving towards motion control and distributed control based on industrial bus technology. Motion control and distributed control are the main directions of PLC technology development.
3. The "ease of use" of programming software
Currently, many users employ different software suites from different control system vendors, such as PLCs, HMIs, drives, and Servos. In the future, users will only need a single software suite or framework. Its main advantage is the ability to handle all variables and parameterizations at once, eliminating the need for complex mapping or coordination. Users can define relevant variables once and then apply those parameters simultaneously in the PLC, HMI, and drive. This concept of "ease of use" also considers the experience level of engineers. Less experienced engineers can easily complete programming using a Windows mouse and by running predefined function blocks. Experienced and well-educated engineers, who wish to optimize solutions in detail, can write applications using languages such as C or BASIC.
4. Openness
PLC manufacturers have begun to notice the powerful impact of industrial PC-based control technology. In high-end applications, it's difficult to further differentiate between PLC control systems and industrial PC control systems, as both utilize the same types of microprocessors and memory chips. Besides offering significantly greater flexibility compared to traditional PLCs, industrial PC control systems also boast advantages such as shorter time-to-market, lower investment costs, and improved data flow efficiency from the factory floor to enterprise office automation. It's safe to assume that PLC technology will continue to evolve towards open control systems.
5. Summary
PLCs have expanded from the industrial sector to commerce, agriculture, civil applications, and intelligent buildings. They can be used not only for switching logic control, replacing relay control, but also for analog closed-loop process control, data processing, communication networking, and motion control. They play an increasingly important role in the rapid development of the national economy. With the rapid development of microprocessors, network communication, and human-machine interface technologies, industrial automation technology is advancing rapidly. In the future, PLCs will develop towards integration, networking, intelligence, openness, and ease of use. While PLC technology faces challenges from other automation control systems, it is also absorbing their advantages, integrating them, and continuously innovating, leading to their wider application in various sectors of the national economy.
