For this project, I was tasked with upgrading one of our “Timer” based Gel Dispense systems to a “PLC-controlled” Gel Dispense system. The design of the PLC-controlled system was performed by my colleague Ryan Gagne, the Principle Engineer. My task was to replicate his system based on some of his notes. I was in charge of ordering parts, fabricating the electrical box, flashing the PLC & HMI, installing it into the cleanroom, and qualifying the system.

Below is an Image of the original “Timer” based system. It is messier and has more pneumatic tubing and wiring. The system has two modes that were actuated by a valve on the pneumatic tubing: (1) Dispense and (2) Purge.	Below is an image of the upgraded “PLC-controlled” system. The system is cleaner and dispenses a consistent and accurate adjustable shot size. The system has two modes that are selected on a button on the HMI screen: (1) Dispense and (2) Purge.