PC based PLC + Machine Vision

Dear Sir,

These are the components required for my project.  The machine is a  
semiconductor machine for QC check of chip leads.

1.Processor Control System
2.CANopen fieldbus system c/w Configuration software
3.PLC Programming Software c/w Communication cables
4.Communication cable for PLC <-> PC SCADA system
5.OPC DA Software (Windows XP compatible)
6.Digital Input 24V DC x 64
7.Digital Output 24V DC x 32
8.Power Supply, Backplane, etc.

There is also a CANopen based pneumatic system.

The QC is by camera vision.  The current system is based on an analogue  
camera, PCI Frame Grabber (PCVISION Plus from Coreco Imaging) card and BW  
monitor.  Although the customer wishes to retain these components, we may  
have to replace them due to integration and / or performance issues.

My proposal is based on PC (running WinXP Professional) based PLC system,  
that will integrate with the Vision System.  The camera may be Camera  
+ Frame Grabber in PCI slot, Camera + FireWire connection or Camera  
+ Ethernet connection whichever is compatible with my proposed  
architecture.

Can we integrate Vision with PC based PLC?  Can we build Vision routines  
into FBD (IEC61131-3) blocks?  Will PC based PLC and Vision system's  
real-time requirements clash with each other?

Does anyone have any experience with a similar integration project?  Any  
'gotchas' to look-out for?

thanks.

--
Kuala Lumpur
MALAYSIA : UTC +08:00
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