Critical Evaluation of Lock Automation and Control Equipment at Corps- Operated Navigation Locks

摘要

A survey of lock automation was conducted at 15 lock sites that use programmable logic controllers (PLC) by visiting the lock sites and interviewing lockmasters, operators, maintenance personnel, and District Engineers in order to evaluate system components. The lock operating components evaluated were divided into the following categories: PLC systems, Operator Interface (01), sensors and switches, and closed circuit television (CCTV) systems. Where possible, these components were evaluated according to the features available as listed on the manufacturers' specification sheets and by the performances of the components based on the experiences of the lockmasters, maintenance personnel, and operators. Draft specifications for controls were proposed based on these and other evaluations.