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My professional background involves the electrical design and programming of automated machinery. This type of equipment generally involves an industrial type computer called a PLC or Programmable Logic Controller. These devices are made to operate in rough environments under harsh conditions similar to a vehicle. They program in different languages such as Structured function block or ladder logic examining inputs and controlling outputs. These outputs in turn can operate relays, lights, controllers, or other devices.
I have used many different manufacturers of PLC over the years and recently found a very powerful yet reasonably priced unit by a company named Unitronics. This device is packed full of features that typically would be priced so high that most people would not consider such a purchase for an electric vehicle. This unit accepts discrete inputs but also analog inputs, RTD inputs and high speed inputs, perfect for measuring speed. It offers analog output, has serial ports, built in PID, timers, counters, extended math features, Modbus, and has optional Ethernet, GSM and GPRS. This means that I will evenually have my electric vehicle call me if there is a problem, the battery is charged or low or an unauthorized person has entered it.
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The best part of this unit is it has a 3.5” color TFT LCD touch screen. So I can have screens for diagnostics, troubleshooting, or just plain speed, charge and temperature. After I have completed this project I plan on concentrating on programs for this unit to market to the Electric vehicle conversion community. With the ability to collect data from the various inputs all kinds of information can be provided such as the trending of battery discharge rates, average speed, optimal speed for maximum travel distance and even battery failure detection.
Check back for updates on this part of the project. I have created a few screens with values plugged in for show. Unfortunately the camera did not capture the crisp screen from a washed out image.
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