Design And Development of PLC Trainer Kit For Inductive and Resistive Load

Abstract

The design and development of a PLC Trainer Kit for Inductive and Resistive Load was developed for the enhancement of training and instruction about automation in electrical and electronics classes. This trainer kit was made portable for use in instruction.

            The trainer kit consists of five (5) sections namely: PLC section features PLC as control unit of the trainer; overcurrent protective device and power supply section; input devices section; output devices section includes inductive loads and resistive loads; and input disconnecting switches.

In order to create the trainer kit, the researcher adhered to the study's conceptual model. The first step is to collect and evaluate relevant literature and studies. Second is to create the training board according to the design. Supplies, tools, and equipment that are needed were prepared. To make the project presentable, the materials were assembled, installed, and finished according to measurement. After the trainer kit was completed, it will be subjected to examination and assessment by teachers, students and experts in the field.

The researcher asked for the assistance of ten electrical technology experts, ten teachers, and ten students to assess the project's acceptability. The criteria used to assess the project's acceptability are its functionality, workability, durability, safety, and instructional applicability; these criteria have three distinct indicators that will be rated on a Likert scale of 1 to 5, with 5 representing the highest rating, or Outstanding, and 1 representing the lowest rating, or Poor. The qualitative method will be used to analyze the data gathered from the various evaluators.

The trainer kit obtained a GRAND MEAN of 4.66 which is equivalent to the description of “OUTSTANDING”. This reveals that trainer kit served its purpose according to the design fabrication and function which suits the current trend in Electrical field. It was found that the situational and multipurpose exercises that may be controlled using the training board, along with a laboratory and user manual, are effective ways to improve higher order thinking skills. The functioning criterion fulfilled its main objective of portability. Its stand-alone designed with transportable housing assembly adds to the project's durability, and the safety features which are crucial because electricity is a constant hazard were commended for being very satisfactory.