We recently added the control manufacturer B&R to our technology foundation. B&R makes control systems for machines, process plants and mobile machines. Partly because of this wide range, RIWO chose to work with B&R.
In the past we have already gained a lot of knowledge and built libraries for e.g. Siemens and Sigmatek controllers. We do not yet have this for B&R. After having realized the first project, we know where the points of improvement lie.
Based on this experience, an enumeration of what functionality still needs to be (further) developed:
- Alarm list generation, using a python script;
- Figure out possibilities and implementation to update plc using a script without Automation Studio;
- Figure out and implement capabilities to backup a PLC without AS, using a USB flash drive and/or FTP.
Your challenge
B&R's development environment is based entirely on text files. This provides the ability to use scripts to automate tasks. As a result, fewer manual actions are required by a Controls Engineer and projects can be developed faster with less chance of errors and with less testing time. One of the tasks an engineer must always perform is making an alarm list. From the software, alarms can be triggered that must be visible to an operator in an alarm list on the operator screen. In AS you can manually define each alarm, which is a time-consuming process that could also be automated.
At RIWO , we use the RIMOTE integration platform. This allows us to connect to machines in the field. So we can look into the software, download software and much more. For Sigmatek, we have developed a tool to update systems with the released software versions. We would like to develop this functionality for B&R PLCs as well.
Through that same RIMOTE integration platform, we also want to be able to make PLC backups and put them in the cloud. So that if a system fails, we can easily prepare a new plc with the most recent backup. This backup of the PLC should be able to be performed automatically (scheduled) or on command.
What will you do?
- Research the possibilities regarding automatic alarm list generation;
- Investigate options for backing up a PLC;
- Conduct research on resetting and updating a B&R PLC;
- Development of scripts;
- Testing scripts;
- Deliver documentation in the form of a wiki in git for the Controls Engineers.
What do you learn?
- Set personal (SMART) learning goals during your internship period that will contribute to the completion of your degree;
- Apply your knowledge and skills in practice and, above all, develop yourself;
- Problem-solving thinking and collaboration with colleagues;
- To (further) develop a professional professional attitude;
- Being part of a down-to-earth Twente no-nonsense organization;
- Structured work using a plan;
- Reflect on whether your learning goals have been met.
Internship at RIWO
We welcome curious, enthusiastic and independent students who want to look back on a meaningful internship. With us you get a lot of freedom to develop yourself, with personal guidance. Take control of your assignment, tailor it yourself. Your ideas are welcome!
In order to successfully complete this internship assignment, one of the following coursework is desirable:
- HBO Electrical Engineering;
- MBO/HBO Technical Computer Science.
If you are enthusiastic about the assignment and doubt whether your background fits? Do not hesitate to contact Ruud and have a sparring session. You can reach him at riwo
Interns are rewarded with a stipend. That's a concession just to come and sniff around, nice! And maybe you'll find your niche and want to continue working with us? Surprise us and show up!