A PROTOTYPE PLC BUILT AUTOMATIC VEHICLE WASHING SYSTEM USING VFD

Sustained infrastructural development in this modern era leaves vehicle surface exposed daily to grime. Although manual vehicle washing has been in existence since vehicle invention, it is arduous, time consuming and uses water excessively. This is not to mention petite abrasion and rapid loss of vehicle surface brilliance with manual vehicle washing. Automatic vehicle washing industry has improved from it first innovation in the twilight of 1930's through advancement in technology, the system is more reliable and efficient. This paper's emphasis is on the development of a scalable prototype exterior automatic vehicle washing system. The system is built around a Logo Zelio (SR3B261BD) PLC for inputs and output components control. VFD moderates the conveyor belt motor speed as required for it smooth operation. Water recirculation system is incorporated for water and detergent economy. The status lamp on the control panel informs the user of the instantaneous stages of operation and control of the entire system. Experimentation of the system presents an efficient washing process between work station and minimal water and detergent usage with the incorporated recirculation system. Application of control panel for monitoring and control enhance the cost effectiveness of this system compared to it SCADA counterpart. In the future, the authors will like to integrate dust particle detection sensor for improved surface cleaning.