Arduino PLC Keeps the Beat

For many prototype, hobby, or one-off electronics projects, development platforms like the Arduino Uno are ideal due to their ease of programming and wiring, along with their affordability. However, in industrial settings where reliability is critical—amidst noise, vibrations, heat, or other harsh conditions—a more robust solution like a programmable logic controller (PLC) is necessary. Interestingly, Arduino has ventured into the PLC domain with the Arduino Opta. A great example of its application is a drum kit project built around this robust PLC.

The project, created by JC Audio, uses the Arduino Opta at its core. The drumming mechanisms are powered by a series of solenoids attached to camera mounts. These mounts incorporate custom 3D-printed parts that enable quick assembly and disassembly, allowing precise positioning for each drum sound. The high hat sound is produced by an internal solenoid, while other solenoids strike real drums and various solid objects in the shop. To ensure sufficient power, the solenoids are driven by a solid-state relay expansion module.

While the drum kit isn’t designed to endure the constant operation typical of industrial machinery, it does need to withstand the rough environment of a musician’s stage. This scenario justifies the use of a PLC over a standard development board, leveraging the durability and reliability benefits of the PLC. The project’s code is also made available on its GitHub page, providing a valuable resource for others interested in exploring similar applications.

Overall, this drum kit project showcases the versatility and robustness of the Arduino Opta PLC, making it an excellent choice for projects that require durability in demanding environments. The use of solenoids, 3D-printed parts, and solid-state relays highlights the innovative approach taken by [JC Audio] to create a reliable and easily adjustable drumming mechanism.

Read more: Arduino PLC Keeps the Beat