2019
20 Jul“Basic Programmable Logic Controller (BPLC)”, the first ever Industrial Based Courses and Training programme held at 五一吃瓜官网 University.
The Faculty of Engineering, Technology and Built Environment in collaboration with Unidustry Sdn Bhd had successfully organised the first Industrial Based Courses and Training (IBCT) programme entitled “Basic Programmable Logic Controller (BPLC)” at 五一吃瓜官网 University Kuala Lumpur campus on 20 to 21 July, 2019.
The two-day Siemens PLC course aimed to give an introductory exposure to the engineering student about the real-world industry application of PLC control system with the aid of Factory IO enables simulation in real BYO 3D animated scenarios. Two certified trainers from Siemens Malaysia, Fatin Ahmad and Shazriq Sharil were invited to conduct the PLC training for the participants using the Siemens’s SIMATIC S7-1200 Basic Controllers.
A total of six engineering students from different engineering disciplines (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering and Chemical Engineering) participated in this training. At the beginning of the training, a brief introduction of PLC was explained by the trainers, followed by the basic knowledge of the structure of SIMATIC S7-1200 automation system.
The extensive hands-on session commenced with the configuration and parameterisation of controller as well as human machine interface (HMI). The participants also gained the knowledge of a PLC programming language known as ladder diagram, in terms of binary operation, digital operations and data blocks that enable them to program the basic plant functions.
In addition, the trainers also taught on the key process flow information, diagnostics tool and repair techniques in order to reduce the downtime of automation system to the participants. Ultimately, all participants were exposed to the Factory I/O, i.e., a flexible 3D simulation software that takes the simulation of industrial systems to the new level. With this innovative technology, all participants were able to practice real world control tasks through the creation of a virtual factory with realistic 3D industrial environment.
The participants had shown their interest and believed that this training programme had benefited them in understanding PLC. Ang Koon Meng, an alumnus from Mechatronic Engineering programme expressed his excitement for being able to participate in the training.
“I choose to sign up for this programme because I know PLC is widely used in the industry based on my previous internship experiences. Personally, I think this programme is beneficial to me because it provides a comprehensive knowledge about PLC. I strongly recommend other students to participate in this type of IBCT programme if they are keen to equip themselves with competency skills required by the industry.” said Ang Koon Meng.
For Ayoub Yousef Gumma Buzrida, a year 4 student of Mechatronic Engineering this training programme had provided him a unique experience as it allows him to have an intensive hands-on session using PLC.
“Being a person who has no prior knowledge about PLC, I learnt a lot about it after attending this programme.” said Ayoub Yousef.
The IBCT programme is designed to provide exposure to the university students so that they can be equipped with the latest technology adopted by industry. It aims to bridge the gap between academic institutions and well-established industries such as Siemens.
The courses and training programmes are designed and delivered by certified industrial players using certified equipment. Through this IBCT programme, the participants will gain key insights from trainers who are working in the industry of their interest.
By the end of each IBCT programme, participants will be awarded with a certificate of competency which issued by a well- established company that believes to bring additional values to their professional development and enabling them to be more competitive in the ever changing and challenging industries.