Supervision and Command Architecture for Automation and Robotics Platform

This work proposes a generic supervisory and command architecture for an experimentation automated platform which is conceived with the aim to improve training and research processes on Automation and Robotics. This study describes the platform's design, dynamic modeling and implementation stages. The integration of technologic and industrial devices (Programmable Logic Controllers - PLC, several types of sensors and actuators, image processing, supervisory systems and robotic manipulation devices) in a single platform which is implemented following a modular Collaborative Automatic Production System (CAPS/ADACOR) architecture allows students and researchers to interact with it trough practices in order to successfully automate, supervise and manage a complete production process. Therefore, theoretical concepts acquired are supported to improve user's professional skills. A platform developed using the generic structure proposed here allows users to work within an educational environment coping with most of the encountered aspects in a real Manufacturing Automation System. In addition, it is possible to command the entire assembly process taking place at the platform by a remote network connection using the internet - WEBLAB (Remote Laboratory), thus enabling individual users and groups in different places in order to use the platform and quickly exchange information.