SAR Automation LP installed 2 production PLCs (Building PLC) that gather production information from the production line. Each PLC is responsible for one building. SAR has mounted about 50 andon lights and push button boxes. Most operator stations have an andon light and a push button box.
 
With the help of the push button boxes the operators can indicate production problems. These problems can be low stock of material, general production problem, or line stop. This information is then displayed on the andon light and is sent to manufacturing execution system called FlexNet. This system logs all line stops, production problems and material shortages. This information is used to alert the responsible parties.
 
In order to connect all the I/O SAR used a decentralized Network called Interbus S and a special Fiber Optic cable. This cable is called HCS and allows a distance between 2 nodes of about 300m. It is more rugged than a regular fiber cable. SAR has installed the largest amount of HCS fiber cable in the world.

One PLC is also used to operate another building. This has no physical connection to the Control PLC. For this application SAR used Ethernet I/O and sends all data via the regular Ethernet network. The protocol used for this application is Modbus/TCP.
 
The first part of the project, from the award of the contract to completion on site, was executed in less than 4 months. After the Excavator Lower Frame Line was installed, SAR installed the second part of the project. 5 andon lights and push button boxes were installed on the line.
 
Volvo was very pleased with the short turn around and the quality of the installation.
 
 
For more information write to usa@sar.biz