Projeto de Controlador Lógico Programável Didático Aberto

This applied research project focuses on the development of a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) using the ESP32 microcontroller. The PLC is a device widely used in industrial automation for process control and supervision. The adoption of microcontrollers, such as the ESP32, offers notable advantages, such as reduced costs, greater flexibility, and integration with wireless communication technologies. There are several studies and research related to the development of PLCs based on microcontrollers like the ESP32 in various areas of industrial automation. Additionally, there is a solid foundation of research examining the advantages and challenges of employing microcontrollers in this context. This work seeks to expand and deepen existing knowledge by providing a comprehensive analysis of the development of a PLC based on the ESP32 microcontroller. This research will contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field and enable an update of the equipment in the Automation Laboratory at IFMG Ibirité campus, positively impacting the educational activities of the Control and Automation Engineering course and allowing new research activities. Furthermore, with the implementation of this project, it is expected that the Automation Laboratory will enable greater interaction between devices for the simulation of industrial process control, aligning with the most modern industrial strategies, such as the Internet of Things and decentralized control.