Interfacing ControlLogix PLCs over Ethernet/IP

Title: Interfacing ControlLogix PLCs over Ethernet/IP

Abstract: This research aimed to develop a driver for EPICS-based accelerator control systems to interface with Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLCs using EtherNet/IP. The study examined the EtherNet/IP protocol, ControlLogix Ethernet interface, and the CIP object model. The results showed that the driver successfully read and wrote data to the PLCs, allowing for seamless integration of the subsystems into the EPICS control system.

Main Research Question: How can we develop a driver to interface EPICS-based accelerator control systems with Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLCs using EtherNet/IP?

Methodology: The study utilized the EtherNet/IP protocol, ControlLogix Ethernet interface, and the CIP object model. The researchers developed a driver for EPICS-based accelerator control systems that used the SendRRData encapsulation command and unconnected CIP messages to read and write data to the PLCs.

Results: The research successfully developed a driver that interfaced EPICS-based accelerator control systems with Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLCs using EtherNet/IP. The driver utilized the SendRRData encapsulation command and unconnected CIP messages to read and write data to the PLCs, allowing for seamless integration of the subsystems into the EPICS control system.

Implications: The development of this driver has significant implications for the field. It provides a practical solution for interfacing EPICS-based accelerator control systems with Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLCs using EtherNet/IP, which can lead to improved performance, reliability, and efficiency in various industrial applications. Additionally, the study's findings can contribute to further research in the field of PLC interfacing and control system integration.

Link to Article: https://arxiv.org/abs/0110065v1 Authors: arXiv ID: 0110065v1