Basic knowledge on programmable logic controller, scada systems and industrial networks.
teacher profile teaching materials
A central part of the course is devoted to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), including their hardware and software architecture, scan cycle, and programming principles according to the IEC 61131-3 standard. The main PLC programming languages are covered, including Instruction List (IL), Structured Text (ST), Ladder Diagram (LD), Function Block Diagram (FBD), and Sequential Function Chart (SFC), with practical examples and industrial applications.
The course also examines the main field-level components used in automation systems, with particular attention to industrial sensors, actuators, electrical drives, and Motion Control systems. SCADA systems are then introduced, focusing on their architecture, main functionalities, data acquisition, process supervision, alarm management, and integration with control systems.
A substantial module is devoted to industrial communication networks and the main protocols used at the different automation levels. The course covers MODBUS, CANbus, Profibus, Profinet, DeviceNet, ControlNet, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, Sercos, and PowerLink. Communication protocols used in supervisory systems and energy infrastructures, including DNP3, IEC 60870, IEC 61850, and OPC UA, are also presented, together with the main wireless communication technologies for industrial applications.
The programme also includes process control systems, with an introduction to P&I diagrams, industrial instrumentation based on 4–20 mA signals, and the HART and Foundation Fieldbus protocols. Finally, the fundamental principles of Functional Safety, the use of PLCs in hazardous areas, and the main cybersecurity issues affecting industrial automation systems and OT infrastructures are discussed.
Laboratory activities include PLC programming and simulation, industrial process emulation, and SCADA system configuration, allowing students to apply the theoretical concepts covered during the course in an integrated practical environment.
Programme
The course introduces the fundamental principles of industrial automation and the main architectures adopted in modern manufacturing systems. After a general overview of industrial automation, the course presents the main architectural and organizational models for production systems, with particular attention to the CIM pyramid, control and supervision levels, and industrial system integration models.A central part of the course is devoted to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), including their hardware and software architecture, scan cycle, and programming principles according to the IEC 61131-3 standard. The main PLC programming languages are covered, including Instruction List (IL), Structured Text (ST), Ladder Diagram (LD), Function Block Diagram (FBD), and Sequential Function Chart (SFC), with practical examples and industrial applications.
The course also examines the main field-level components used in automation systems, with particular attention to industrial sensors, actuators, electrical drives, and Motion Control systems. SCADA systems are then introduced, focusing on their architecture, main functionalities, data acquisition, process supervision, alarm management, and integration with control systems.
A substantial module is devoted to industrial communication networks and the main protocols used at the different automation levels. The course covers MODBUS, CANbus, Profibus, Profinet, DeviceNet, ControlNet, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, Sercos, and PowerLink. Communication protocols used in supervisory systems and energy infrastructures, including DNP3, IEC 60870, IEC 61850, and OPC UA, are also presented, together with the main wireless communication technologies for industrial applications.
The programme also includes process control systems, with an introduction to P&I diagrams, industrial instrumentation based on 4–20 mA signals, and the HART and Foundation Fieldbus protocols. Finally, the fundamental principles of Functional Safety, the use of PLCs in hazardous areas, and the main cybersecurity issues affecting industrial automation systems and OT infrastructures are discussed.
Laboratory activities include PLC programming and simulation, industrial process emulation, and SCADA system configuration, allowing students to apply the theoretical concepts covered during the course in an integrated practical environment.
Core Documentation
Reference textbook: C. Foglietta, Architetture per il controllo industriale. Dispositivi, linguaggi e protocolli. The teaching material presented during lectures is an integral part of the course.Attendance
Attendance is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended, particularly for practical and laboratory activities.Type of evaluation
The final assessment consists of two components. The first is a project assignment, to be presented by the student, involving the simulation of a physical process, the implementation of the corresponding controller, and the development of a SCADA supervision system. The project contributes approximately one third of the overall grade. The second component is an oral examination covering the entire course programme and contributes approximately two thirds of the final grade. No intermediate assessments are scheduled. The dates for both the project presentation and the oral examination must be agreed with the instructor.