Modern Concepts of Supervisory Control Systems Based on PLC and SCADA Configuration

Modern control structures, based on PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems are reliable, have great programming flexibility, enable changes in basic parameters or the concept of the entire control system, quick adaptation to new situations, and implementation of new knowledge to which are reached during work monitoring, thanks to the fact that all these changes are made in software. PLCs have been the devices most widely applied in the last three decades to solve tasks related to industrial plant automation and process control. The processor, memory capacity, and computer capabilities of the controller enable the application of very complex algorithms and control of very complex processes. Modern SCADA systems incorporate the most modern technologies at the moment, with the Internet of Things (IoT), Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and Industry 4.0 having a significant impact as well. Today’s industry development is characterized by the transition from digitization of production platforms to cyber-physical systems. SCADA systems now allow access to data on the operation of process equipment in real time from anywhere in the world. These modern platforms allow users to quickly and easily design and develop different applications, even without in-depth knowledge of the software. Introduction of modern IT standards, practices, and technologies, such as Structured query language (SQL) and web-based applications in SCADA software, optimizes the efficiency, security, and reliability of the SCADA system. Along with the development of supervisory control systems, the need to protect data that is acquired, processed, and transmitted also arose. Current problems and trends in this area and the protective measures taken to overcome the problems are presented. This paper presents an example of supervisory control of a complex industrial plant.