Using the embedded Ethernet communication capability of PLC controller for tailor-made Manufacturing Execution System

Abstract

There is a tailor-made Manufacturing Execution System presented in the paper. The system has been developed and implemented practically by authors. The general idea behind it is explained firstly. A generic structure of Factory Automation system was introduced. Siemens Simatic S7-300 PLC controllers were used to implement the idea. The MES software was written in C# software. The approach for PLC configuration and programming using Step 7 software was briefly presented. The communication between PC MES software and PLCs is based on industrial Ethernet. The main functionalities of the MES system were pointed.