I'll chime in on this PLC thing. I have a lot of experience using
different different computer languages to control equipment.

I always found PLC ladder logic to be difficult and arcane. I do know
the folks that do this can whip out a control program quickly.

If you don't have a fella with great aptitude for this sort of thing
in house, I'd hire it out. An expert will charge ya, but it will be
worth it.

Karl