Maybe I'm missing something but it appears you're replacing a $10 Arduino Uno for a $49 PLC.
I don't see the advantage.
To be completely honest im looking to sell complete dtg machines built on a professional non-bias supplier like this plc controller.
I have used a Chinese version in the past. I just cant bring myself to use a manufacturer anymore whose sole interest is to profit on dtg specific controllers (I have inquired with several -all small time developers) Cant have my supplier, selling complete units and competitors in my region. Territories etc. Bill doesn't want to do Bobs customer service (Bobs lazy and doesn't take care of his customers) because the dtg groups know i use the same control supplier, get where im coming from? I want a completely separate identity marketed on a commercial controller.
So, yass, there are many advantages particularly the free programming simplicity that velocio offers. The add on touch screens/hardware w/free software built on a professional system. (something i can sleep at night knowing its background)
I have read the horror stories, seen the infighting, and watched them come and go (even good ones to greed) It will be a universal plc controller for me to escape those barriers aforementioned when i make a full go, it will be far from dtg specific suppliers selling everything to everybody, anywhere they want.
Maybe your underestimating the volume of entrepreneurs whose true intention is to profit on a machine? They first visit the open source, diy communities to gather reconnaissance. It truly would be a great open source diy platform also. Im just trying to fish one of these out already running for recon myself.