Control and Monitoring Unit for the RT-32 Electric Drive Based on Programmable Logic Controllers

A. V. Isaenko, A. M. Shishikin

Transactions of IAA RAS, issue 73, 22–30 (2025)

DOI: 10.32876/ApplAstron.73.22-30

Keywords: RT-32 radio telescope, programmable logic controller, control system, electric drive, control and monitoring unit

Abstract

The RT-32 radio telescopes of the Quasar-KVO radio interferometric complex are complex multi-component devices. The standard operation of the RT-32 is maintained by a set of subsystems, each characterized by measurable parameters. Successful functioning of the radio telescope requires coordinated operation of these subsystems, which necessitates continuous monitoring of their status and precise control. The RT-32 antenna system’s electric drive employs a dual-speed, multi-motor configuration, involving control commands, command execution acknowledgments, and electrical operating parameters of its components. Since 2010, the upgraded Control and Monitoring Unit (BUK-M) have managed drive control tasks. However, long-term operation of the RT-32 has revealed critical shortcomings in the BUK-M, including limited drive operation acknowledgment, lack of automated logging of drive parameters, and outdated hardware. Key parameters for assessing drive performance include armature currents (indicative of motor torque) and tachogenerator voltages (reflecting motor rotation speeds). Additionally, power supply parameters and operational temperature conditions directly influence drive behavior. This work aims to automate electric drive control, data acquisition, visualization, and storage for subsequent analysis. Key objectives include rationale for automation equipment selection, implementation of a PLC-based distributed monitoring system, and integrating it with existing control infrastructure of the radio telescope. The system employs Russian-made industrial programmable logic controllers (PLCs) from Owen. Their modular design enables scalable distributed measurement systems, while hardware specifications ensure sufficient processing capacity. Flexible programming capabilities allow long-term system adaptability and functional expansions. The data acquisition core combines the PLK110 logic controller and SPK110 sensor-programmable controller, supported by analog/digital input modules. Distributed modules communicate via Modbus-RTU and Modbus-TCP protocols. Compatibility with existing Owen PLCs at the RT-32 facility enabled integration into the telescope’s broader distributed control and monitoring network. The proposed hardware-software solution ensures precise drive control, real-time performance assessment, predictive anomaly detection, and alerts for preventive maintenance. Such an approach enhances operational reliability and supports long-term failure-free operation.

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