We'll need some more information than that, the free items will probably come from a google search, otherwise you are paying money. Are you looking for a specific control system or are you trying to get more of a philosophy?
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Money doesn't talk, it screams in your face.
Process and Automation differs from project to project if you want control details of automation project you have first select the control system also you can download certain softwares which give you basic idea of PLC which is the basis of any automation project