Introduction

This project outlines the development of a cigar drying system that uses a Siemens S7-200SMART PLC to monitor and control the entire process. The system integrates real-time collection of temperature and humidity data from each stack of cigars. It employs wireless temperature and humidity sensors, RS485 MODBUS RTU controllers, and PID control to maintain optimal fermentation conditions. Additionally, the system aggregates the data to a cloud server, enabling real-time monitoring and control of each room. A database stores the data, and an Excel table is used to analyze it, helping to identify any abnormal or focused data.

System Architecture

The system architecture comprises the following key components:

• Siemens S7-200SMART PLC: Serves as the central controller, responsible for monitoring and controlling all components.
• Advantech Industrial Computer: Used for data visualization and analysis.
• Kingview Software: Handles the visualization and analysis of data.
• Remote Module: Connects the system to the cloud server for remote access.
• Wireless Temperature and Humidity Sensors: Collect temperature and humidity data from each stack of cigars.
• RS485 MODBUS RTU Controllers: Facilitate communication with the wireless sensors.
• PID Controller: Maintains the optimal temperature and humidity levels for cigar fermentation.
• Cloud Server: Stores and processes the data from the system.
• Database: Houses all system data for record-keeping and analysis.
• Excel Table: Displays and analyzes the collected data for trends and anomalies.

System Operation

The operation of the system is as follows:

1. The wireless sensors gather temperature and humidity data from each stack of cigars.
2. The RS485 MODBUS RTU controllers transmit the data to the Siemens S7-200SMART PLC.
3. The PLC processes the data and uses the PID controller to adjust temperature and humidity for optimal fermentation.
4. The PLC forwards the processed data to the remote module.
5. The remote module then sends the data to the cloud server.
6. The system stores the data in the database and displays it in an Excel table.
7. Users analyze the data in the Excel table to identify abnormal or focused readings.

Benefits

This cigar drying system offers several advantages:

• Improved Cigar Quality: Optimal temperature and humidity control leads to superior cigar quality.
• Increased Efficiency: The system automates the drying process, reducing the need for manual labor.
• Reduced Energy Costs: PID control ensures energy-efficient temperature and humidity maintenance.
• Enhanced Data Collection and Analysis: Real-time data analysis enables better decision-making.

Conclusion

This project demonstrates the development of an efficient cigar drying system using the Siemens S7-200SMART PLC. The system facilitates real-time data collection from wireless temperature and humidity sensors, communicates via RS485 MODBUS RTU controllers, and employs PID control to ensure ideal fermentation conditions. The system aggregates data on a cloud server, stores it in a database, and analyzes it in an Excel table for further insights. Ultimately, the system enhances cigar quality, operational efficiency, and data-driven decision-making.