Case Studies

Quickly Developing Prototypes with Siemens S7-1200 PLC

Photo of Siemens Simatic S7-1200 PLC.
Posted in Consumer Goods, Embedded Development & Programming, Manufacturing Automation and Intelligence, Motion Control, PLC Programming, Product Development, Siemens PLC

Summary

DMC utilized a Siemens S7-1200 to program the controls for a prototype household appliance with two stepper drives. Typically, the application is geared toward embedded hardware. However, DMC utilized the low-cost PLC to implement a flexible solution to fit the client’s budget and schedule constraints. This made it possible for the client to invest less money to build a functional prototype which can be used to judge market demand.

Solution

DMC’s client was developing a new appliance which caters to the audiophile industry. Drawing upon our expertise in a variety of services, DMC provided recommendations on a solution that best fit the client's needs rather than hiring multiple vendors.

The appliance consists of joystick control of two stepper drives and a clutch. The end product will require an embedded circuit board to control the appliance, but DMC saved time by using a PLC for the prototype to develop the serial drive communication and motion logic. This easily offset the increased hardware cost and allowed DMC to complete the prototype earlier than quoted. 

DMC utilized the low-cost S7-1200 to program the functionality of this appliance with the flexibility to allow for easy hardware additions. The PLC also runs on and outputs 24V, which allows for smooth integration with all components and eliminated the need for multiple voltages and power supplies. This enabled DMC to deliver a functioning prototype to the client who will use this to gather interest and eventually bring an embedded appliance to market. 

Learn more about DMC's Siemens PLC programming services.

Customer Benefits

  • Quick, low cost development
  • Flexible solution allows features to be added easily
  • Integration with final hardware

Technologies