Industrial Parameter Monitoring using CAN

Problem statement

Large industrial plants have many sensors spread over long distances. Point to point wiring is complex and not robust.

Abstract

This project demonstrates use of Controller Area Network bus for industrial parameter monitoring. Several sensor nodes with microcontrollers are connected on a common CAN bus. Each node sends sensor readings as CAN frames. A master node receives all frames and displays or logs the values on a small SCADA style interface.

Components required

• Multiple microcontroller boards with CAN shields
• CAN transceiver modules
• Temperature, pressure or speed sensors
• Master controller with LCD or PC interface
• Termination resistors for CAN bus
• Power supply for all nodes

Block diagram

Working

Each sensor node reads local sensor values, packs them into CAN frames with unique IDs and transmits them on the bus. The master node is configured to accept these IDs, decode the data and update displays or a PC application. Bus errors and status can be monitored using indicators.

Applications

• Industrial automation labs
• Automotive CAN bus demonstrations
• Building automation with distributed sensors
• Training on fieldbus communication