Cooking Oil Dispenser – Control System D

Project: Cooking Oil Dispenser – Control System Design & Integration
I have a project that requires assistance with the design, programming, and integration of a control system for an oil dispensing truck.
Project Overview
The system consists of a 24V DC Inovance PLC that will control and monitor the oil dispensing process. The truck dispenses multiple types of cooking oils and collects used oil. The control system will interface with multiple sensors and actuators, as described below:
Hardware & I/O Requirements
Flow Meters (4) – For dispensing new oil (4-20 mA signals).
Load Cell (1) – For final weight measurement before dispatch (4-20 mA).
Incoming Flow Meter (1) – For used oil collection (4-20 mA).
Solenoid Valves (2) – 24V DC operation.
Pumps (4) – 0.5 kW, 240V AC, driven by 24V coil contactors.
Existing Control Panel – Already built, the current PLC needs to be replaced.
Required PLC I/O:
12 DI (digital inputs)
12 DO (digital outputs)
8 AI (analog inputs)
2 AO (analog outputs)
Communication
The PLC will communicate via Modbus protocol.
HMI
A new 7" Inovance HMI will be mounted on the panel, providing basic flow process graphics and control screens.
Surface Pro Integration
A Microsoft Surface Pro 7 will be installed in the truck.
It will run ModbusScope (or equivalent software) for data monitoring and logging.
At the end of each oil delivery:
A CSV file will be generated from the logged data.
The CSV file will include:
Dispatch quantities from each flow meter.
The final load cell weight.
The file will be automatically emailed to both the client and the supplier.
Optional: Ability to print the dispatch summary on-site.
Remote Access
The system must allow secure remote access for:
Program updates
Troubleshooting
Data retrieval
The PLC and HMI will be connected to the Surface Pro via an Ethernet switch.
Remote access can be implemented using VPN, TeamViewer, or equivalent solution.
Scope of Work
PLC Programming
Develop ladder logic using Inovance Automation Studio (or EasySoft).
Control sequences for:
Oil dispensing from 4 flow meters.
Used oil collection.
Pump and valve control.
Load cell weight confirmation.
Safety interlocks and alarms.
HMI Development
Design and program the Inovance HMI using InoSoft.
Create graphical process pages, including:
Tank levels
Flow meter readings
Pump/valve status
Start/stop controls
Alarm display
Data Logging & Email Automation
Integrate ModbusScope (or alternative solution) on Surface Pro.
Configure automatic CSV generation after each delivery.
Develop an email sending function (with CSV attached) to:
Client
Supplier
Remote Access Setup
Implement a reliable remote connection for PLC and HMI (via Surface Pro).
Provide a secure method for program updates and troubleshooting.


Deliverables
Complete PLC program with documentation.
Complete HMI project file with all graphics and tags.
Email and CSV automation script or configuration.
Remote access configuration guide.
Proposal Requirements
Quote as:
Lump sum for the entire project, OR
Hourly rate, OR
Breakdown by task (PLC, HMI, Remote Access, Email Automation).
Provide:
Estimated timeline for each deliverable.
Any additional hardware/software recommendations.
Optional
Experience with Inovance PLCs and HMIs is preferred.
Experience with Modbus communication and automation reporting systems.
Ability to support remotely during commissioning phase.
 
 
 
High-Level Scope of Work for Inovance PLC & HMI Project
Control System Supply & Setup
Provide an Inovance PLC and HMI-based control panel designed for [application: oil filtration/truck system].
Configure communication using Modbus RTU for data exchange between devices.
Integrate touchscreen functionality to display real-time data (e.g., pressures, temperatures, flow rates) and allow operator interaction.

Automation Logic & Control
Develop and implement PLC logic to:
Start/stop pumps and filtration units.
Manage operational sequences.
Include oil line blowout routine for cleaning and system safety.
Include safety interlocks, alarms, and emergency stop conditions.

Remote Access & Monitoring
Configure the HMI and PLC for remote access using TeamViewer or other secure remote access software on a Microsoft Surface Pro 7 (Windows-based).
Allow remote diagnostics, programming, and updates.

Data Logging & Reporting
Configure the system to log operational data (e.g., run hours, oil pressure, temperature) to CSV files.
Implement an automated process to email daily/weekly reports in text or CSV format.
Optional: Integration with cloud or local server for storage and retrieval.
Commissioning & Local Support
All equipment will be provided, preconfigured, and shipped ready for integration.
Commissioning will be carried out remotely using remote access tools.
A local licensed electrician will be assigned to perform on-site electrical work and follow remote instructions during commissioning.
Documentation & Training
Redline markup of electrical drawings and PDF of ladder logic program .
Provide remote training for operators and maintenance staff.

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