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Efficiency improvement of automated production line by conversion of subroutine configuration

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Abstract

Programmable control for automated production is an essential technology for industrial development. In addition, a flexible main control system and scheduling management can significantly improve production efficiency. This study improved a programmable logic controller (PLC) subroutine module and communication methods using the modular production system (MPS) automated workstation developed by Festo to optimize the process of production. First, a simulated production line with feeding, transportation, discrimination, and processing stations was set up in a laboratory. Experiments and tests were performed, and data were collected. Consequently, different program editing and planning methods, such as program modularization, step system, and subroutines of the busbar, were proposed for PLC and automation systems. The design with clearer and more modularized subroutines was used to improve the production line performance and stability and achieve dynamic scheduling to optimize the production line efficiency to meet the demands.

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Funding

This work was supported by National Science and Technology Council in Taiwan (Grant numbers NSTC 112-2221-E-027-051-MY3).

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Correspondence to Po-Tuan Chen.

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Chen, PT., Cheng, YL. Efficiency improvement of automated production line by conversion of subroutine configuration. Int J Adv Manuf Technol 129, 3537–3547 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00170-023-12542-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00170-023-12542-3

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