Siemens PLC & Machine Vision Self-Learning Stand

A Hands-On Platform for Learning Industrial Automation

A compact self-learning automation stand designed for hands-on practice with PLC programming, machine vision, servo motion, sensors, and PROFINET communication.

Instead of learning automation only through simulations, you can work with real industrial components and build your own programs, test different control strategies, and see the results immediately.

The stand represents a small automated sorting system:

• An object moves along the conveyor.
• The photoelectric sensor detects the object.
• The Cognex IN-SIGHT camera performs a visual inspection.
• The inspection result is sent to the PLC via PROFINET.
• The PLC processes the result.
• The servo actuator moves the object to the required position.

This gives you a small but realistic automation system to experiment with and learn from.

What You Can Practice?

The stand can be used to learn and practice:

• Siemens S7-1200 PLC programming
• Digital inputs and outputs
• Sensors and actuators
• Machine vision
• PROFINET communication
• Servo positioning
• Analog inputs
• Automatic sorting
• Manual and automatic operating modes
• Timers, counters, and logical operations
• Troubleshooting and debugging

You can start with simple PLC exercises and gradually build more advanced programs using the same hardware.

Real Industrial Components

The stand uses real automation hardware rather than simulated devices.

Included Hardware

• Mini conveyor belt
• Cognex IN-SIGHT micro vision camera (with black and white sensor)
• E3Z-D81 photoelectric sensor
• Closed-loop servo motor with integrated driver
• Analog input simulator
• Emergency stop switch
• 2-position selector switch
• Control button
• Ethernet switch
• PROFINET network
• Pre-wired control system

All components are mounted on the stand and ready for hands-on experimentation.

You can create your own PLC logic, change the sorting rules, experiment with motion control, modify the operating modes, and test different automation concepts.

The PLC and vision system are connected through an Ethernet switch, creating a small PROFINET automation network.

This allows you to practice communication between multiple industrial devices instead of working with a PLC alone.

What Is Included

• Self-learning training stand
• Ethernet/PROFINET network
• Power supply with EU plug
• Basic documentation
• Wiring ready for Siemens S7-1212C DC/DC/DC

The power supply accepts 100–240 V AC input.

Please note that the PLC is not included. The kit is pre-wired for a Siemens S7-1212C DC/DC/DC.

Please note that the camera requires good lighting or an external light source to function properly.