Factory Automation
Factory Automation
Factory Automation
ON
Streamlining Operations:
AT
(June 2023)
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A REPORT
ON
Streamlining Operations:
AT
(June 2023)
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Acknowledgements
First and foremost, we would like to thank our Practice School faculty, Mrs Suchismita
Satpathy, for her invaluable guidance and encouragement throughout the project. The
insightful feedback, encouragement, guidance, and willingness to clear our doubts and
help us at every stage were instrumental in completing the project. We are truly
grateful for her mentorship and support.
We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to all the executives of Alltronix
International INC, Hyderabad and especially to Mr Aryan Sagar Sunku for his overall
supervision, guidance, and teaching throughout the internship. He has been highly
interactive with us, pushing us to go beyond and better, encouraging us to take up
challenging tasks and helping us. His critical feedback and assessments of our
simulations, code and presentation have contributed immensely. We are very grateful
to him.
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Abstract
(RAJASTHAN)
Centre………... Hyderabad
Name(s) designation(s) of the expert(s)……….. Aryan Sagar Sunku, Tech head, Alltronix
Abstract:
The automation system employs the servo motor to sort packets based on height and
weight, optimizing productivity and accuracy. To ensure safety, temperature and
smoke sensors are integrated, accompanied by a safety mechanism of a buzzer,
exhaust fan, and sprinkler to mitigate fire hazards. Access control is provided through
the keypad-based lock system, initiating the process upon entering the correct
password.
Abhimanyu Magapu
Apoorva Jain
Daksh Seth
Table of Contents
Background Research....................................................................................................... 6
Hardware Used................................................................................................................. 9
Objectives ...................................................................................................................... 19
Methodology.................................................................................................................. 20
Scope of Improvement................................................................................................... 23
Conclusion...................................................................................................................... 24
References ...................................................................................................................... 25
Glossary .......................................................................................................................... 27
Appendix - A .................................................................................................................. 30
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Background Research
In recent times, the emergence of the Internet of Things (IoT) has been ground-
breaking and has revolutionized almost every aspect of life. From Industrial
Automation, Wireless Communication, Smart Cities, Hospitals, Agricultural Fields to
even our vehicles and homes, IoT has encompassed our lives and allowed for a
seamless communication, data exchange and enhanced production, safety and
efficiency [1]. IoT refers to the vast interconnected network of devices and equipment
which can collect, store, exchange, analyse and communicate data over the internet.
The realm of IoT devices has developed rapidly and is deepening at an even faster
pace in today’s day and age. The earliest models of IoT devices focused primarily on
interconnecting small machines and sensors dubbed as Machine to Machine
communication (M2M) and is often considered to be the backbone of the IoT
mechanism. Over the years, revolutionary developments of Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Cyber
Protection Systems, Cloud Computing and Big Data systems, Industrial Automation
Systems have improvised the whole production and security line. [2]
Arguably, the Industrial Sector has been impacted the most with the onset of IoT and
rightly so. The Industry needed to move away from its heavy reliance on Manual forces
and the age of automated machines took over. Industrial Automation was a welcome
change and came with it many perks.
• Supply Chain Optimization - Introduction of IoT has led to enlarged visibility and
transparency across the supply chain. Now the inventory levels, shipment status
and all logistical operations can be easily viewed in real time, leading to
producers being able to efficiently manage their stock, quality and integrity and
improve all logistical operations.
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• Improved Safety and Risk Mitigation Systems have been implemented thanks to
the introduction of IoT devices. Industrial setting almost often poses a hazardous
environment and evokes potential risk to human life, by using proper devices
and sensors one can carefully monitor the level of temperature, pressure,
hazardous gasses, equipment malfunctions and deploy the necessary
countermeasures immediately.
Keeping these things in mind, some of the Industrial Automation technologies have
been implemented in our project.
• Smart Lock System - A Smart lock System is a smart security device that uses a
Password to open a door or gain access to a compartment. The entered
password is visible on the LCD screen. It automates the security element and
eliminates the use of manual requirements to physically authenticate each and
every person. Also, it almost nullifies the entry of any unauthorized entity,
eliminating any chance of theft or physical data breach.[3] Upon successful
authentication, the door allows entry only for a limited amount of time and has a
restriction upon the number of failed attempts of password entry. Since every
entry is digitized, it automatically creates logs of all those entered along with the
recorded Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) footage.
• Smoke and Temperature Detectors along with Exhaust Fan and Sprinkler System
- These two systems are closely related and comprise the safety unit of the
Industry Automation. They provide real time monitoring of the smoke and
temperature levels, constantly updated on the LCD screen, within the factory as
industrial settings are often places with hazardous conditions. Smoke and
Temperature are detected by their respective sensors, and they work in
simulation to predict any fire hazards. If only smoke is detected, the Exhaust fan
will operate and clear the smoke. But if smoke is detected along with a
significant rise in temperature, indicating the presence of fire, the sprinkler
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system springs into action to subdue any further damage. This is how the safety
system works to prevent any hazards. [4]
• Industry Automation Systems - This unit comprises of a height and weight sorter
and a speed controller conveyor belt. An Ultrasonic sensor HC-SR04 detects the
height of the package by measuring the time it takes the reflected ultrasonic
sound waves to reach back.
A pressure sensor is used to measure the weight of the package. After these
parameters are known, the respective sorting is done which is controlled by 2
Servo motors. Also there is a speed control conveyor belt system, controlled by
a DC motor, which can alter to three different speeds and even work in reverse.
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Hardware Used
Resistor:
A resistor is an electronic component that restricts the flow of electric current in a
circuit. It is typically made of a material with high resistance, such as carbon or metal
alloys. The amount of resistance offered by a resistor is denoted by its band colours. I
have used a 220 oh resistor in this project.
The band colours of a 220-ohm resistor are typically red, red, brown, and gold. The
colour bands on a resistor are used to represent the resistance value and tolerance. In
this case, the first band (red) represents digit 2, the second band (red) represents digit
2, the third band (brown) represents the multiplier 10^1, and the fourth band (gold)
represents the tolerance of +/- 5%.
Potentiometer:
A potentiometer is an adjustable electronic component that functions as a variable
resistor. It is commonly used to control the electrical potential (voltage) in a circuit. The
potentiometer consists of a resistive element and a movable contact, often called a
wiper. As the wiper is adjusted, it changes the resistance along the resistive element,
thereby altering the voltage output.
Potentiometers are used in LCDs to adjust the contrast and brightness levels of the
display. By incorporating a potentiometer, the LCD allows users to adjust the contrast
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and brightness levels to achieve optimal visibility and readability. The potentiometer
provides a variable resistance that controls the voltage or current flowing to the LCD
panel, thereby altering the intensity of the backlight or the electric field applied to the
liquid crystals. I have used a 250-ohm potentiometer in my simulation.
LCD:
An LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is a flat panel display technology used in various
electronic devices, including televisions, computer monitors, smartphones, and digital
watches. It utilizes the unique optical properties of liquid crystals to generate images
and graphics.
LCDs offer several advantages, including high resolution, sharp image quality, and low
power consumption. They also have a thin and lightweight design, making them suitable
for portable devices. However, LCDs may have limitations such as limited viewing angles
and slower response times compared to other display technologies like OLED (Organic
Light Emitting Diode). I have used a 16x2 LCD in my simulation.
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Figure 03: The figure shows the various components of a colour LCD
Source: [7]
Figure 04: The figure shows an HC -SR04 ultrasonic sensor with its output pins
Source: [8]
Arduino UNO:
In this project, an Arduino UNO microcontroller is used to process the data.
It has 14 digital input/output pins (6 can be used as PWM outputs), six analog inputs,
a 16 MHz ceramic resonator, a USB connection, a power jack, an ICSP header and a
reset button.
Some of the features of the Arduino UNO are:
Figure 06: The figure depicts a typical Arduino UNO used as a processing unit in this design. The
corresponding input and output pins are also shown.
Source: [10]
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Force Sensor
A force sensor, also known as a load cell, is a device designed to measure the force
applied to it. It is commonly used in various applications that require the measurement
and monitoring of forces, such as industrial automation, robotics, material testing, and
medical devices.
Force sensors work on the principle of converting applied force into an electrical signal
that can be measured and analysed. They typically consist of a sensing element, which
undergoes deformation or strain when subjected to force, and a transducer that
converts this strain into an electrical signal.
There are different types of force sensors, including strain gauge-based sensors,
piezoelectric sensors, capacitive sensors, and optical sensors. Each type has its own
advantages and is suitable for specific applications based on factors such as accuracy,
sensitivity, range, and environmental conditions.
Figure 07: The figure depicts a typical Force sensor which will vary its resistance depending on how much
pressure is being applied to the sensing area.
Source: [11]
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Figure 08: The figure depicts a typical Piezo sensor depicting the positive terminal in red and the negative
terminal in black.
Source: [12]
Temperature Sensor(TMP36)
The TMP36 is a specific type of temperature sensor that operates based on the analog
output voltage proportional to temperature. It is a low-cost, easy-to-use sensor
commonly used for measuring ambient temperatures in various applications.
The TMP36 temperature sensor is designed to provide a linear voltage output that is
directly proportional to the temperature being measured. It can measure temperatures
within a range of approximately -40°C to +125°C with an accuracy of around ±2°C.
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DC Motor
A DC (direct current) motor is an electromechanical device that converts electrical
energy into mechanical rotation. It operates based on the principle of electromagnetic
induction and is widely used in various applications that require controlled rotary
motion.
A DC motor consists of two main components: a stator and a rotor. The stator is a
stationary part of the motor and contains coils or magnets that generate a magnetic
field. The rotor, on the other hand, is the rotating part and typically consists of a shaft
and a set of conductive coils or permanent magnets.
When an electrical current is applied to the motor, it creates a magnetic field in the
stator. This magnetic field interacts with the magnetic field of the rotor, creating a force
that causes the rotor to rotate. The direction and speed of rotation can be controlled
by varying the magnitude and direction of the current flowing through the motor.
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Figure 10: The figure depicts a typical 9 volt DC motor with a max speed of 8600 RPM.
Source: [14]
Figure 11: The figure shows the chip diagram of the L293D IC with the pins labelled.
Source: [15]
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Objectives
The main objective of this project is to design and develop an industrial automation system
using Arduino and various sensors for efficient and accurate packet sorting on a conveyor belt.
The system will utilize a servo motor to sort packets based on both height and weight, thereby
enhancing the overall productivity and accuracy of the sorting process. To ensure safety during
operation, the automation system will be equipped with a temperature sensor and smoke
sensor, integrated with a safety mechanism consisting of a buzzer, exhaust fan, and sprinkler to
detect and mitigate potential fire hazards effectively.
To restrict access to authorized personnel only, a user-friendly keypad-based lock system will
be implemented, allowing the automation process to initiate once the correct password is
entered. Moreover, to provide flexibility and adaptability, the project aims to incorporate a
speed control mechanism for the conveyor belt, enabling easy adjustment of the sorting
process speed to meet different production requirements.
A crucial aspect of the project will be to establish seamless communication between the
Arduino, sensors, servo motor, and control components, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted
automation process. Furthermore, emphasis will be placed on optimizing power consumption
and system efficiency to reduce operational costs and promote sustainability.
Comprehensive documentation and a user manual will be developed to facilitate easy setup,
operation, and troubleshooting of the industrial automation system. Rigorous testing and
quality assurance measures will be conducted to ensure the system's reliability and safety,
meeting industry standards and regulations.
Finally, the project team will explore possibilities for future expansion, such as integrating
additional sensors to handle a wider range of sorting criteria and enhancing automation and
safety features. The ultimate goal is to deliver an innovative and practical industrial automation
solution that streamlines the packet sorting process, improves productivity, and enhances
workplace safety.
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Methodology
The project was built on TinkerCAD using their sensors and hardware. To make it easy
for any reader to understand what is happening, the code is well-commented and uses
variables with descriptive names.
The project has been divided into three distinct modules, namely the security module,
the safety module and the automation module.
See appendix A for the schematic diagram of the whole circuit and the code asscociated
with circuit.
Security Module
Figure 12: The figure shows the security module of the circuit.
The above figure shows the circuit for the security module. This is the module that
allows entry into the factory. A security lock can be opened by entering the correct
four-digit password. The door of the factory opens once the correct password has been
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entered. The servo motor turns to open the said door. The door self-locks after it has
been open for a long time and the password has to be entered again. Messages are
displayed on the LCD.
Safety Module
Figure 12: The figure shows the safety module of the circuit.
The safety module of the circuit consists of a smoke and a temperature detector.
They are used to detect the presence of a fire in the factory. If smoke is detected in the
factory, a buzzer rings loudly. At the same time, exhaust fans are activated to blow the
smoke out of the factory.
Similarly, a temperature rise is detected by the temperature sensor. The current
temperature is displayed on the LCD screen.
If the smoke and high temperatures are detected, the system considers this a fire.
Exhaust fans and sprinkler systems are activated to extinguish the fire.
The smoke sensor can be activated by moving a cloud of smoke above it, and
temperature can be adjusted by slding the toggle in front of the temperature sensor.
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Automation Module
Figure 12: The figure shows the automation module of the circuit.
The automation module has various features for a seamless and automated factory
environment. The conveyor belt is controlled by a DC motor with a controllable speed.
The speed has three levels and a reverse option. Packages can be sorted based on
their height, size, or weight. This is done with the help of the Force and Ultrasonic
distance sensors. Based on their height, packages are classified into Small( < 10c),
Medium(>10cm and < 30cm) and Large(>30 and <50cm). The max package height that
can be handled is 50cm. Similarly, packages are classified into Lightweight( < 4kg),
Mediumweight(>4kg and < 8kg) and Heavyweight(> 8kg). The maximum package
weight that can be handled is 10kg. Based on these parameters the motors turn a
specific angle to guide the package to its designated conveyor belt line. The weights
and heights of the packages can be adjusted by using the toggles in front of the
respective sensors.
Scope of Improvement
Although the system is thoughtfully designed and implemented, there still exists a
scope of improvement in all the 3 units to make it more efficient, complete and
resilient. Newer and more sophisticated technology combined with upto date devices
and sensors could make this project better.
Firstly, instead of a Smart Lock System an OTP (One Time Password) based Lock
system could be implemented. It would work on the following principle - Each
authorized person will receive a 4-6 digit Code on his registered mobile number or
email provided by the authority, which he/she would have to enter in order to gain
entry. An even better strategy would be to implement a 2 factor authentication system
which combines OTP along with a Fingerprint Scanner to essentially wipe out any
possibility of breach. This would require highly sophisticated sensors and a huge
database system which was virtually impossible to implement in TinkerCAD.
Secondly, for the Safety Unit, more measures could be implemented like a Radiation
monitoring system, pressure sensors, Gas leak detector and an emergency shutdown
system. Radiation monitoring systems can be implemented in industries related to
nuclear activity. Pressure detection and Gas sensors are usually present in every factory
and are an essential safety component. Also, an Emergency shutdown system can be
implemented as the ultimate failsafe to prevent any further damage. All these require
very powerful sensors which are beyond the scope of TinkerCAD.
Lastly, for the automation unit we can incorporate Artificial Intelligence along with the
principles of Machine Learning to build Smart Machines which are pre-programmed to
our needs and require little to no human intervention. Nowadays, Distributed Control
Systems are being used in various industries like Petrochemicals, Oil and Gas,
Chemical Plants etc which are used to handle complex processes and are dangerous to
humans. They comprise of Hardware and Software components provide On-Site low
latency automated control which improves reliability and remote access and even allow
other functions to continue in the event of a breakdown. [16]
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Conclusion
The successful implementation of the industrial automation system for efficient packet sorting
has demonstrated the significant advantages of integrating advanced technologies in industrial
processes. By utilizing Arduino, sensors, servo motors, and a user-friendly keypad-based lock
system, the project achieved its objectives of optimizing packet sorting based on height and
weight and ensuring safety with temperature and smoke sensors, along with appropriate safety
mechanisms.
The benefits of industrial automation showcased in this project offer promising opportunities
for the future of manufacturing and various industries. One key advantage is the substantial
improvement in efficiency and accuracy, leading to increased production rates and reduced
errors. This enhanced productivity translates into cost savings and improved revenue
generation for businesses.
The incorporation of safety measures, such as temperature and smoke sensors with
corresponding safety mechanisms, ensures a secure working environment for personnel and
helps prevent potential fire incidents. This not only protects valuable assets but also fosters a
culture of employee well-being, ultimately enhancing workforce satisfaction and retention.
Moreover, the user-friendly keypad-based lock system provides access control, reducing the
risk of unauthorized interference and potential sabotage. Enhanced security ensures the
confidentiality of proprietary information and operational processes, contributing to a
competitive edge in the industry.
As we look towards the future, the field of industrial automation holds immense potential for
further advancements. Embracing these automation technologies can revolutionize industries,
leading to increased efficiency, workplace safety, and competitiveness. By continually exploring
innovative solutions and embracing automation principles, industries can meet evolving market
demands and achieve sustained growth and success.
In conclusion, the successful development of the industrial automation system highlights the
significant advantages of adopting automation technologies in manufacturing processes. The
project's achievements underscore the potential for future advancements, leading industries
towards a more efficient, safer, and prosperous future.
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References
[1]. Madakam, S. , Ramaswamy, R. and Tripathi, S. (2015) Internet of Things (IoT): A
Literature Review. Journal of Computer and Communications, 3, 164-173. doi:
10.4236/jcc.2015.35021.
[2]. Mondal, Debasish. (2019). The Internet of Thing (IOT) and Industrial Automation: a
future perspective. World Journal of Modelling and Simulation. 15. 140-149.
Glossary
Term Definition
Electric Potential The amount of work needed to move a unit charge from a reference point to a
specific point against an electric field.
ICSP header These pins are used to code and boot an Arduino from an external source.
IIOT The Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) is the collection of sensors, instruments and
autonomous devices connected through the internet to industrial applications.
IoT The Internet of Things (IoT) describes the network of physical objects— “things”—
that are embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies for the purpose
of connecting and exchanging data with other devices and systems over the internet.
Liquid Crystal Liquid crystal is a state of matter whose properties are between those of
conventional liquids and those of solid crystals. For example, a liquid crystal may
flow like a liquid, but its molecules may be oriented in a crystal-like way.
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Hertz is the standard unit of frequency in the International System of Units (SI).
MHz Megahertz (MHz) is a unit multiplier that represents one million hertz (106 Hz).
Ohm The SI unit of electrical resistance, transmitting a current of one ampere when
subjected to a potential difference of one volt.
OLED OLED stands for organic light-emitting diode and is one of the newer technologies
available for TVs and other digital displays.
Piezoelectricity Piezoelectricity is the process of using crystals to convert mechanical energy into
electrical energy or vice versa.
PWM Pulse width modulation or PWM is a commonly used control technique that
generates analog signals from digital devices such as microcontrollers.
Rotos The rotor is a moving component of an electromagnetic system in the electric motor,
electric generator, or alternator.
Sensors A sensor is a device that detects and responds to some type of input from the
physical environment.
Stator A stator is the stationary component found in electric motors and generators.
Tolerance Tolerance is the total amount a dimension may vary and is the difference between
the upper (maximum) and lower (minimum) limits.
Torque Torque is a twisting or turning force that tends to cause rotation around an axis,
which might be a centre of mass or a fixed point.
Ultrasonic Of or involving sound waves with a frequency above the upper limit of human
hearing.
UVC Ultraviolet C, a subtype of ultraviolet light
Voltage Voltage is the pressure from an electrical circuit's power source that pushes charged
electrons (current) through a conducting loop,
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Appendix – A
[1]. The picture consists of the schematic diagram of the circuit simulated on
TinkerCAD.
All the components are labelled, and connections are shown.
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1A4elNQ6ISTdBzkdv8vKAL8W-RrnkDMwB
[2]. The file has all the code used for the Arduinos to run the simulation. The language
used is C++. The file is in the ‘ino’ format.
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Cim_jwdvQNwtx2HxPOf6mUL36-ZKVNmE