pneumatics info

[guiness]

hello people
looking for abit of help
im looking to start making mini projects with pneumatics
ive know how manual pneumatics work
but im looking to use 12v pneumatic valves but not sure where to start

so do i need a laptop or a plc system and software
some kind of progamme

many thanks gaz

 

[FranV8]

If you're looking for a cheap and simple microcontroller, well probably actually capable of being pretty capable, look up Raspberry Pi.

 

[rtbcomp]

I would go for the Pi too,

http://cpc.farnell.com/jsp/bespoke/bespoke2.jsp?bespokepage=cpc/en_CC/special_offers/bargains/part_detail/RPi_lp2.jsp&isRedirect=true

 

[Luke]

What do you want to do?

Most solenoids are 24v, you can get 12v but its not as common.

You can do plenty with switches and limit switches without using any sort of processor. If you want to use a pic or pi you need to be up for learning software and building electronic hardware. If you've got a project that needs to work sooner, a cheap basic plc could be an option.

If you've used manual valves you'll be happy with port configurations. Some solenoids are spring return, some are pulse/latch.

 

[rtbcomp]

Or you could forget electronics and use fluidics instead

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fluidics

I remember Raymond Baxter on "Tomorrows World" demonstrating this by letting paint run down his arm and off his elbow!

 

[AndyStobbs]

if you can make your stuff work on low pressure, ie. 1 bar, then you have a cheap source of 12v solenoid valves on scrap cars.

Normally used to switch vacuum on or off, cars are now litered with them.
They might be good for more than 15psi, but you would have to test that yourself.

 

[guiness]

thanks for your quick replys just looking at raspberry pi just got to work out how to use this item

 

[Robotstar5]

A mini PLC would probably do what you want - link

 

[guiness]

the mini plc looking good are they easy to use

 

[Luke]

A PLC will be much easier to use than a Pi or a PIC. The I/O will also be more suitable - you will be able to drive outputs directly (subject to output current limitations etc).

You will probably need programming software, it looks like the PLC Robotstar5 linked to has free software or can be programmed through the LCD, though that could get pretty tedious!!

If you go for software, you will also need a programming lead (depending on which sort of PLC you go for - some have Ethernet ports so you can use any network cable). You will also probably need a 24v PSU, though again it depends on the PLC.

As the description says, the PLC linked to is a clone of a Siemens LOGO! which is a simple but useful basic PLC. It will be fine for simple stuff.

 

[Wedg1e]

I'd go for a PLC as well, but that's helped by the fact that I have the programming software for the Mitsubishi Melsec range and have built a few control systems around them.

 

[rtbcomp]

http://planet.farnell.com/email/cpc/WebOffers/January29_13.htm