Control unit for freely configurable function sequences as well as user interface, computer program product and use

Abstract

Control unit (100) for at least one machine or plant engineering function sequence (11), wherein the control unit is freely programmable by a program code (20) defining a / the program of the control unit, wherein the control unit comprises: a software component and a hardware component with a predefined / predefinable number of digital and analog inputs and outputs (30), an HMI visualization for generating at least one HMI (10) for providing a user interface, and at least one configuration module (15); characterized in that the control unit is programmed in a pre-configured form with predefined unchangeable program code, wherein the control unit is set up for changes to at least one functional sequence without programming or program code adjustment solely by means of the at least one configuration module (15), in particular based on parameterization.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention relates to a universally applicable control unit for at least one machine or plant engineering function sequence, wherein the control unit is fundamentally freely programmable by a program-defining program code, wherein the control unit comprises a software component and a hardware component with digital and analog inputs and outputs (I / O), wherein the control unit includes an HMI visualization and at least one configuration module. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a user interface or HMI set up for configuring a corresponding function sequence that can be specified by means of such a control unit.Furthermore, the present invention relates to computer-aided implementations for realizing a method for configuring such a control unit, in particular for specifying certain functional sequences with a predefined number of I / Os and / or in the context of a method for setting up a machine or plant. Finally, the present invention also relates to the use of a configuration module for configuring such a pre-configured control unit without programming by making at least one programming-free change to at least one machine or plant-related functional sequence of the control unit. In particular, the invention relates to a control unit and uses according to the preamble of the respective independent claim. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Control systems (hardware and software) for automated / automatable manufacturing processes, e.g., metalworking processes including welding, especially capacitor discharge welding or high-current pulse welding, require a comparatively high degree of specific computer-based implementation, particularly when repeated adjustments to the process and / or product are necessary. This typically entails a comparatively high level of (manual) effort and also a comparatively high level of (programming) expertise.

[0003] According to the state of the art, one or more of the following difficulties typically occur, particularly with commercially available plant and machine controls, e.g. also in the context of welding systems and welding processes: -The control system (hardware and software) is manufactured and specifically designed for a single system or a very specific function; -The control system must be programmed by qualified personnel; -Changes or extensions require very specific expertise and also specialist personnel, especially for adaptation and programming; -Once used, the control system usually cannot be easily reused for new purposes, nor can it be easily transferred or rewritten; -The (functional) sequence or the plant-specific process sequence is fixed in the control system and cannot be changed without specialist personnel; -The available user interface for the setup and operation level must be individually programmed by hand; -The entire process must also be programmed manually in individual steps; -Process changes or program changes require a change in the program code.

[0004] In the field of programmable logic controllers (PLCs), efforts have been observed for some time to minimize the adaptation effort or to make a specific type of application-specific implementation more ergonomic, e.g., thanks to specific user interfaces and / or visualizations. However, programmable logic controllers inherently have the disadvantage that programming is required, especially in the context of specially designed modification software; in other words, programmable logic controllers require an intervention in the program code, otherwise they would not be programmable logic controllers.Although configuration, i.e., an adjustment of software and / or hardware components, can usually be carried out at least within the framework of programming tools for transferring control programs and configuration files, the implementation also includes a program code adjustment, either manually, e.g. by means of application-specific programming tools to be installed, or via change software automation.

[0005] Based on this, there is interest in an improved starting point in terms of usability and workload for an elegant application-specific implementation of controls, especially in the field of plant and process control.

[0006] An example is the publication WO 03 / 083 650 A2, which describes a computer-technical architecture by means of which a program code or a structure of an automation program can be generated from an HMI in simplified processes.

[0007] Based on the current state of the art, there is a need for measures to further optimize ergonomics and reduce manual effort when adapting control systems, particularly with regard to simplification thanks to reduced technical hurdles, especially with regard to reduced requirements for software engineering expertise. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The task is to provide a control system (hardware and software) for automated manufacturing processes such as (capacitor discharge) welding or for plant and machine control, which can be implemented in the most flexible and variable way possible with minimal requirements for software engineering expertise, in a manner that allows for universal usability, at least for corresponding automated manufacturing processes or for specific plant and machine control applications. Furthermore, the implementation of such a control system must be designed in such a way that application-specific configurations can be achieved in a particularly elegant and cost-effective manner, especially with minimal programming requirements.

[0009] This problem is solved by a control unit according to claim 1, by a computer program product according to the corresponding dependent claim, and by uses according to the corresponding dependent use claim. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are explained in the respective dependent claims. The features of the exemplary embodiments described below can be combined with one another unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0010] A control unit is provided for at least one machine or plant engineering function sequence, wherein the control unit is freely programmable by a program code defining the program of the control unit, and wherein the control unit comprises: a software component and a hardware component with a predefined / predefinable number of digital and analog inputs and outputs, an HMI visualization for generating at least one HMI for providing a user interface, and at least one configuration module;According to the invention, it is proposed that the control unit is programmed in a pre-configured form with predefined, unchanging program code, and that the control unit is set up for changes to at least one functional sequence without programming or program code modification, solely by means of the at least one configuration module, in particular based on parameterization. This facilitates a very lean, application-specific implementation of the control unit, in particular such that the control is individualized depending on the predefined I / O and the associated individual functions of the sequence.

[0011] Accordingly, the present invention, in contrast to the method of setting up programmable logic controllers (PLCs), is also based on the concept of providing only a configuration, advantageously exclusively through programming-free configuration (in particular by linking predefined / predefinable I / O with individual functions of the sequence), instead of performing programming (or adapting / modifying program code) based on at least one (graphical) programming language with operands. Although the term "configuration" is sometimes used in connection with programmable logic controllers, this refers to a system-specific setup of the PLC, particularly in the context of a programming device, i.e., an application- or environment-specific preparation of the PLC for subsequent programming measures.

[0012] Where the present disclosure refers to a controller or control unit, these terms are to be understood synonymously, at least in a functional sense. In terms of device technology, the controller can be a component of the control unit, particularly insofar as the control unit can be configured to be installed and connected to a machine or system and to be integrated into at least one network, for example, via a communication module. In particular, with regard to processes, the terms controller and control unit can be understood synonymously.

[0013] Insofar as the present disclosure refers to configuration, this means a programming-free adaptation of the control without changing the program code, in particular based solely on linking predefined I / O with individual functions of the (desired) process, especially in the sense of adapting the basic structure, particularly the hardware.

[0014] Insofar as the present disclosure refers to HMI visualization, this is to be understood synonymously as a system-side implementation designed / set up for a corresponding context-related user interaction and interacting with hardware and / or software components to correlate configuration and (to be created based on it) HMI, in particular also including computer implementations or a computer program product described here for generating an HMI based on a specific configuration.

[0015] If, according to the present disclosure, an HMI of the HMI visualization is mentioned, then this is to be understood synonymously as a (user) interface created based on specifications generated via the configuration module, in particular in the form of a graphical user interface, which is designed, for example, graphically-haptically and / or speech-based-auditoriously, and by means of which user interaction with the functional sequence can take place, for example with regard to at least one setup function and / or further individual functions, in particular also with regard to linking I / O with the desired individual functions.

[0016] Personalized terms, unless explicitly formulated in the neuter form, may refer to all genders within the scope of this disclosure. Any foreign-language expressions or abbreviations used here are industry-standard technical terms and are familiar to those skilled in the art in the respective language, e.g., the term HMI. Any synonymous German terms may be redundantly listed here for the sake of completeness, or vice versa, for example, regarding the term HMI (user interface).

[0017] It is important to understand that the number of I / O (inputs / outputs) is predefined or fixed. The corresponding control unit is therefore designed depending on the number of I / O (I / O-specific control unit). For example, a first control unit is designed for 16 digital I / O, or for 32 digital I / O, or for 32 digital I / O with 4 analog I / O.

[0018] It is understood that the present invention can also be implemented in the context of an implementation of AI models, and that the implementation of AI models within the scope of the present invention can include a computer infrastructure or data processing architecture, in particular also in the core of at least one computing unit, which facilitates and / or makes more powerful or faster (up to real-time processing) and / or makes more energy-efficient or at least partially makes possible in the first place.In particular, decision-making processes of neural AI networks can be implemented relatively quickly and (energy) efficiently, especially in end devices (edge), for example in the context of data processing and data storage, for example for energy-optimized data storage, and / or in connection with the use of spin losses or in combination with so-called spintronic measures, especially also in the case of particularly small and energy-saving semiconductor components.For example, the computer-based and chip-based tools described here include at least one of the following components: photonic AI chips, especially those with silicon photonic structures (a combination of electronic and optical data processing), spintronic semiconductor devices, optical waveguides at least partially replacing or supplementing electronic semiconductors, as well as multiplexing components, photon modulators, photodetectors, ring resonators, at least one dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) component for the simultaneous processing of multiple data channels, at least one optical circuit integrated into at least one neural network (NN) or deep neural network (DNN), and at least one photonic processor. For example, at least one NN and / or DNN is executed directly at the hardware level. As a result, particularly large datasets can be analyzed very quickly.For example, at least one photonic component is present in form printed directly onto a wafer, in particular at least one of the following photonic components: optical amplifiers, photonic integrated circuits (PICs), polarization converters, splitters, optical waveguides, phase modulators. It should be understood that, in addition to such infrastructure specialized for AI applications, an implementation of so-called Neural Architecture Prediction (NAP) methods can also be used alternatively or additionally; AI models based on these can, for example, also be combined with AI architectures such as transformers, LSTM (Long Short-Term Memory), GNN (Graph Neural Network), etc.neural networks (specialized for processing information based on graphics and charts), and / or RNNs (Recurrent Neural Networks) can be combined, especially for the purpose of implementing AI measures even on at least partially comparatively old hardware, which is (still) not necessarily designed at the hardware level for an optimized application of AI measures.

[0019] In contrast to the present invention, according to the prior art, one or more of the following difficulties arise, particularly with commercially available plant and machine controls: -The control system (hardware and software) is manufactured and specifically designed for a single system or a very specific function; -The control system must be programmed by qualified personnel; -Changes or extensions require very specific expertise and also specialist personnel, especially for adaptation and programming; -Once used, the control system usually cannot be reused for a new purpose, nor can it be easily transferred or rewritten; -The process or plant-specific sequence of operations is fixed in the control system and cannot be changed without specialist personnel; -The available user interface for the setup and operation level must be individually programmed by hand; -The entire process also has to be programmed manually, step by step.

[0020] In contrast, the present invention relates to a control unit that is universally applicable and easily adaptable, particularly since it only requires linking predefined / predefinable I / O with individual functions of the sequence, optionally in combination with interlocking individual functions against each other. The universal control unit has a computer implementation which advantageously requires no programming knowledge whatsoever. Complex manual programming by skilled personnel is therefore no longer necessary.

[0021] The universal control unit advantageously consists of a software and hardware component. The software is pre-programmed or fully programmed and includes an HMI visualization (monitor and / or web-based) as well as a configuration module for the system's operation. The hardware component advantageously consists of a predefined or fully assembled unit with digital and analog inputs and outputs (I / O). The number of I / Os per module is advantageously scalable; in other words, it can be specified to what extent a configuration module should be able to configure a certain number of inputs and outputs without programming.

[0022] The universal control unit is advantageously pre-configured. For this purpose, the control unit is ideally equipped with pre-developed (defined) software. Based on this, the user can configure the control unit's inputs and outputs without programming, and subsequently also the control sequence (or functional sequence). The inputs can be either digital or analog.

[0023] Advantageously, the predefined program code stored on the controller / control unit is never changed, but at most influenced by variables within the framework of parameterization.

[0024] Advantageously, interlocks between individual functions can be freely configured, particularly to avoid collisions. The universal control unit is advantageously designed to automatically generate the HMI for operating, especially setup functions, from the configuration of the inputs and outputs as well as any interlocks, particularly using the computer program described here.

[0025] The process is advantageously configured according to the WYSIWYG principle, ideally in a matrix. Each process step is advantageously correlated with an individually adjustable step timeout, and the number of steps is advantageously freely configurable.

[0026] The concept according to the invention allows the selection of the controller to be based solely on the number of required inputs and outputs, and thus no longer on the functional sequence itself. The number of inputs / outputs can vary depending on the configuration. Therefore, the initial situation for selecting the controller is comparatively clear, and the selection process itself is no longer fraught with difficulties. After its intended use, the controller can be easily reconfigured for entirely different applications.

[0027] Advantageously, different sequences for different tasks can be stored in the controller. In other words, different sequences for different types of tasks can be stored in the universal control unit or the controller itself. For example, several sequences can be started simultaneously, accessing different digital and / or analog inputs and outputs of the hardware.

[0028] The ability to operate or access multiple (configuration) modules in parallel is advantageous. This can also expand the range of applications, even if the number of I / O ports is narrowly predefined.

[0029] The universal control unit is advantageously equipped with a teaching mode, particularly one that includes at least one algorithm for recognizing and adopting user actions during setup. For example, the teaching mode is implemented as follows: The user manually executes the process step by step during setup. The controller records the behavior of the actions and reactions of the various inputs and outputs. In automatic mode, the controller then executes these individual steps and uses them to create the functional sequence.

[0030] Advantageously, different processes and configurations, especially the setup level, are saved individually and can be reloaded depending on the task type or application, particularly initiated via the HMI.

[0031] Thus, the special features and technical characteristics of the universal control unit can also be summarized as follows: Due to the control unit's design, no programmer (specialist personnel) is required. The control unit advantageously has a teaching function or at least one self-learning algorithm. The at least one sequence is / is advantageously configured in a matrix according to the WYSIWYG principle. The entire system configuration, including the setup level, as well as the control sequence (or functional sequence), can be loaded individually as needed. The universal control unit advantageously comprises at least one pre-configured software and hardware component. The control of the universal control unit is advantageously designed to store different sequences within the control unit itself, which can run either independently or in parallel.can be accessed for the process.

[0032] In contrast to methods known from the prior art, which are based on the concept of generating program code from or via an HMI, the present invention is based on the understanding that the program code itself can remain identical on the controller, remains predefined and unchangeable, and that no code modifications are necessary to change the control sequence. Previously, according to the prior art, a controller was first prepared for a specific programming task (sometimes referred to as configuration in the prior art, but this refers to preparatory steps prior to programming), and then, in the next step, individual I / Os were connected to each other by specific program code. However, if a change is necessary later, the program code must be adapted, particularly using programming software.According to the invention, this is no longer necessary; rather, a user is now in the advantageous position of being able to easily configure the desired new process.

[0033] The present invention also offers the advantage that a maximum number of I / O ports does not need to be maintained to accommodate as many applications as possible. In this respect, a predefined limitation to a specific number of I / O ports also results in a leaner design and allows for easy application-specific scaling.

[0034] According to one embodiment, parameterization for changes to the at least one functional sequence, executable via the configuration module, can be implemented using at least one variable, in particular using at least one variable from the following group: timeout threshold of individual steps of the functional sequence, interlocking of individual functions of the functional sequence against each other, movement, position; wherein the at least one variable is preferably predefined via the HMI. This facilitates quick and easy adaptation to specific processes and, for example, also to specific actuators that, for example, on a production line, must operate with positional accuracy and within tight time windows.

[0035] In this context, a variable describes a single function. For example, a variable describes a gripper (actuator / robot), perhaps with the variably configurable (sub-)functions "open gripper," "close gripper," or optionally a specific movement of a gripper arm. A parameter could be, for example, a pressure that is passed to a (prop) valve at a predefined time. The variable might then be labeled: Prop valve pressure 1, and the parameter might be set to, for example, 3.5 bar.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the configuration module is set up for user interaction in which inputs / outputs are configured first, followed by the configuration of at least one functional sequence. This sequence benefits both ergonomics and a systematic approach to customizing the configuration.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the configuration module, in combination with the HMI visualization, is designed such that a user only needs to integrate the inputs / outputs into the program to configure the function sequence and link the function sequence to individual functions. This also results in a particularly streamlined setup process.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the configuration module is set up to configure the functional sequence via at least one parameter from the following group: configuration of at least one input, in particular by parameters from the group Action / Reaction of actuators, Relative position of actuators; configuration of at least one output, in particular by the parameter Individual function and / or Sequence linkage; interlocking of individual functions of the functional sequence against each other, in particular by motion and / or position parameters; configuration of at least one setup function, in particular by parameters from the group Timeout, Position, Movement, Actuation, Signal transmission, Sensor data transmission. This also facilitates an advantageous separation between the setup level and the execution level, while maintaining good ergonomics in each case.

[0039] According to one embodiment, several individual functions are each linked to a setup function and can be manually adjusted outside of the process sequence. This also allows the configuration of specific actuators, e.g., certain types of positioning movements of grippers, without having to intervene in the process sequence.

[0040] In this process, the individual input / output (I / O) units are advantageously first connected to the program or individual functions and then linked to the sequence. Example: Output 7 is connected to "Close gripper"; "Close gripper" is then linked to the sequence in step 8; this causes the gripper to close in step 8.

[0041] As another example, the variable "gripper forward" can be used as a parameter for a setup function with regard to a locking mechanism. This allows the gripper to be instructed, for example, that it may only move into the "forward" position if it is, for example, positioned at the top.

[0042] The terms setup function and individual function can be distinguished from one another insofar as an individual function relates, for example, to the process of "opening" or "closing the gripper," and each individual function is advantageously linked to a setup function so that it can be operated manually outside of the sequence. Setup functions therefore primarily concern operation (human-machine interaction), and individual functions a single function of the desired sequence as such.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the HMI visualization includes at least one monitor and / or is based on a web-based, in particular browser-based, IT infrastructure.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the control unit is configured to generate the HMI for operation, particularly of setup functions, based on configured inputs / outputs and interlocks between individual functions, especially by means of the computer program product described here, which can be implemented as part of the software component. This also enables an ergonomic correlation between the user interface and the configuration.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the configuration module and HMI visualization are correlated in such a way that the configuration module of the HMI visualization specifies the design of the HMI, in particular depending on links and interlocks, especially based on the predefined number of I / O.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the control unit is configured to specify the design of the HMI, in particular the HMI for operating setup functions, at least from the configuration of the inputs / outputs via the configuration module and optionally also from the locking of individual functions of the HMI visualization via the configuration module.

[0047] It should be understood that the HMI can be considered an integral part of the program and can be displayed and manipulated both on a screen and via a browser. The HMI is advantageously configured for setup functions, process configuration, live viewing, and I / O level configuration.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the at least one functional sequence is configured according to the WYSIWYG principle, advantageously in a matrix, in particular with functions and corresponding actions / reactions listed in the columns and individual program steps listed in the rows. This also facilitates a good overview and allows for subdivision according to the structure proposed here.

[0049] According to one embodiment, each process step is correlated with an individually adjustable step timeout, whereby the number of steps is advantageously freely adjustable.

[0050] The following advantageous division of the rows and columns of the matrix is ​​provided or implemented / implementable: Rows list individual program steps, columns list the function and the corresponding action or reaction that is required or provided for in the corresponding program step.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the control unit consists of a pre-configured software component and a pre-configured hardware component. In other words, the control unit is advantageously already permanently integrated with the hardware. This allows for a more targeted and streamlined configuration process.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the control unit is configured to load the pre-configured configuration of at least one function sequence, including at least one setup function, from a memory of the control unit, particularly upon request by a user via the HMI, especially via a selection menu for different function sequences stored in the control unit. This also facilitates particularly pragmatic universal use.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the control unit comprises several configuration modules, each configuration module being correlated with one of several specific functional sequences, and each configuration module being advantageously operable via a corresponding HMI. This also allows for the mirroring of proven configurations for related processes.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the control unit is configured for a live teaching mode, specifically comprising the following algorithm, which can be initiated via the HMI: the sequence of functions is manually traversed step by step; the behavior of the actions and reactions of the individual inputs and outputs is recorded and displayed live. This can further improve ergonomics and minimize the workload and potential for errors associated with manual input.

[0055] In other words, the control unit is advantageously configured for at least a partially self-learning teaching mode, specifically encompassing the following algorithm, which can be initiated via the HMI: the sequence of functions is manually executed step by step during setup; the behavior of the actions and reactions of the individual inputs and outputs is automatically detected and recorded by the system; the individual steps are then executed by the system, and the functional sequence or its configuration is generated from this. This also provides a particularly safe and error-minimized method of configuration. The configuration can be generated from the execution of the individual steps, in particular, by a user manually making (see setup functions / setup functionality) presets that correspond to the system's basic settings. This state can, for example,The program is saved in line 1 (program step). The user then manually executes the first required action (e.g., open gripper 1) and configures the response (e.g., gripper opened). The user can also perform multiple actions / reactions simultaneously. Once the user has completed a step, they proceed to step 2 with another keystroke. The next actions / reactions then follow in step 3, and so on. The user can monitor the machine's actions and responses live.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the control unit is configured to store at least two different functional sequences or their configurations and to call them up and execute them either independently or in parallel, particularly via the HMI. This can further broaden the range of applications.

[0057] Example: A controller with 32 inputs and 32 outputs and 2 processes is designed, where the processes use or require 16 I / Os. Therefore, 16 I / Os each need to be configured for task 1 and task 2. These two tasks, or rather their execution, can now run in parallel.

[0058] The aforementioned problem is also solved by computer-aided implementations for realizing a method for programming-free configuration of a control unit according to the present disclosure for at least one machine or plant engineering function sequence in combination with user interaction controllable via an HMI and / or based on an at least partially self-learning teaching mode, wherein the programming-free configuration can be carried out by at least one change to the at least one function sequence, in particular in response to user input via an HMI, with predefined immutable program code of the control unit program, and wherein a newly adapted HMI can be generated, in particular based on the configuration of inputs / outputs and optionally also from configured interlocks of individual functions.Based on the aforementioned advantages, this also allows for a comparatively streamlined implementation, even with relatively complex (movement) processes, for example, involving a large number of actuators. Such a method can be implemented on or via a personal device, or optionally remotely via a network.

[0059] The aforementioned task is also solved by a computer program product comprising commands which, when the computer program product is executed on a computer or in a control unit, cause it to execute a method for configuring a control unit without programming for at least one machine or plant engineering function sequence in combination with user interaction controlled via an HMI and / or based on an at least partially self-learning teaching mode on the computer or in the control unit, in particular a computer program product set up for configuring the control unit without programming by at least one change to the at least one function sequence, especially in response to user input via an HMI, with predefined, unchangeable program code of the control unit program.and designed to generate a newly adapted HMI, particularly based on the configuration of inputs / outputs and optionally also on configured interlocks of individual functions, especially with the HMI configured for operating at least one setup function. Based on the aforementioned advantages, this also enables further simplifications and improvements, particularly in the context of user interaction or minimizing the required level of user interaction.

[0060] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a user interface, in particular an HMI, set up for a control unit that can be configured without programming, according to the present disclosure, wherein the user interface is set up for at least one configuration-specific parameterization for changes to at least one functional sequence of the control unit via at least one variable, in particular via at least one variable from the following group: timeout threshold of individual steps of the functional sequence, interlocking of individual functions of the functional sequence against each other, movement, position; wherein the at least one variable can be specified via the user interface. This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized, in particular with regard to good ergonomics and targeted user interaction for configuration.

[0061] The aforementioned problem is also solved by using a configuration module for the programming-free configuration of a control unit pre-configured by a program with predefined, unchanging program code by at least one programming-free change to at least one machine or plant engineering function sequence of the control unit, wherein the configuration module is set up for interaction and communication between at least one software component and at least one hardware component with a predefined number of digital and analog inputs and outputs and at least one HMI visualization for generating at least one user interface, in particular an HMI, wherein the configuration module is set up for parameterizing the function sequence via at least one variable that can be specified via the user interface, in particular in the case of a control unit described above according to the present disclosure.This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized.

[0062] The aforementioned task is also solved by using at least one algorithm, activatable via an HMI, to implement an at least partially self-learning teaching mode on a control unit for changing at least one functional sequence by programming-free configuration. The algorithm is configured to perform the configuration after manually executing the sequence of the new functional sequence, in particular individual steps during setup, and after capturing the behavior of the action and reaction of individual inputs and outputs by system-initiated executing of the individual steps and system-generated new configuration of the functional sequence, particularly in the case of a control unit described above according to the present disclosure. This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized, especially with regard to further optimized ergonomics and minimization of work / effort, e.g.even with different numbers of inputs / outputs and otherwise at least partially identical processes.

[0063] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a computer program product designed for the computer implementation of a method for the programming-free configuration of a control unit program, defined by a predefined program code, for at least one machine or plant engineering function sequence, comprising the following steps: configuring a predefined number of inputs / outputs, in particular by integrating them into individual functions of the program; configuring at least one function sequence by linking it to a predefinable input / output; in particular by a computer program product according to the disclosure described above. This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized, especially with regard to further simplified implementation.

[0064] It is understood that, based on the present disclosure, a person skilled in the art can conduct investigations and further developments to optimize the configuration method and the type of interaction with the user, in particular also experimental investigations and / or variations in the implementation of, for example, the positions and movements of individual components of a system, such as actuators like grippers. In doing so, the person skilled in the art can also make use of common methods for computer-aided generation of action options and / or for computer-aided identification of optimization potential. Specifically within the scope of the present invention, a person skilled in the art is to be considered to be an engineer with several years of professional experience in the field of implementing controls for machines and systems and industrial (manufacturing) processes.

[0065] Summary: The present invention relates to a control unit for at least one machine or plant engineering function sequence, wherein the control unit is freely programmable by a program code defining the program of the control unit, wherein the control unit comprises: a software component and a hardware component with a predefined / predefinable number of digital and analog inputs and outputs, an HMI visualization for generating at least one HMI for providing a user interface, and at least one configuration module; wherein the control unit is programmed in a predefined manner by the program in the form of a preconfigured program with predefined, unchangeable program code.wherein the control unit is configured for changes to at least one functional sequence without programming or program code modification, solely by means of the at least one configuration module, in particular based on parameterization. This allows for numerous advantages in connection with minimized requirements for specialist knowledge and with regard to improved ergonomics and targeted implementation. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a user interface or HMI configured for configuring a corresponding functional sequence that can be specified by means of such a control unit. The present invention also relates to computer-aided implementations for realizing a method for configuring such a control unit.In particular, for specifying certain functional sequences with a predefined number of I / O and / or in the context of a method for setting up a machine or plant. Last but not least, the present invention also relates to the use of a configuration module for configuring such a pre-configured control unit without programming by at least one programming-free change to at least one machine or plant-related functional sequence of the control unit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0066] The invention is described in more detail in the following illustration. It shows: Fig. 1 In schematic representation, a relationship between the components of a control unit described here according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURE

[0067] The invention will first be explained with general reference to the reference numerals. Specific features or individual aspects will be discussed in connection with the figure.

[0068] A control unit 100 is provided for at least one machine or plant engineering function sequence 11, wherein the control unit is freely programmable by a program code 20 defining the program of the control unit, wherein the control unit comprises: a software component and a hardware component with a predefined / predefinable number of digital and analog inputs and outputs 30, an HMI visualization for generating at least one HMI 10 for providing a user interface, and at least one configuration module 15;wherein the control unit is programmed in a pre-configured form with predefined, unchangeable program code, and wherein the control unit is set up for changes to at least one functional sequence without programming or program code modification, solely by means of the at least one configuration module 15, in particular based on parameterization. Advantageously, a division into three levels is provided: sequence level 11 relating to individual functions, level 12 for specifying variables or parameters, optionally also relating to individual functions, and setup level 13 relating to setup functions.

[0069] In Fig.Figure 1 shows the control unit 100, which includes the HMI 10 for providing the three levels 11, 12, 13 (sequence level 11, parameter level 12, setup level 13) for realizing a programming-free configuration of the controller 1, explained here with reference to at least one actuator configured as a gripper. The at least one configuration module 15, or a user via the appropriately designed user interface, orchestrates these three levels.

[0070] The process or process level 11 includes, for example, Step 1: Action: Gripper downwards, Reaction: Gripper is down Step 2: Action: Gripper closes, Reaction: Gripper is closed Step 3: Action:...., Reaction:.... ...etc.

[0071] Level 12, for specifying variables / parameters, may include, for example: Output 1 = Open gripper, Output 2 = Close gripper, Output 3 = Gripper downwards, Output 4 = Gripper downwards; Entrance 1 = gripper is at the top, Entrance 2 = gripper is at the bottom; Analog input 1 = gripper position (open, closed), analog output 1 = setpoint pressure ...etc.

[0072] Setup level 13 includes, for example, at least one first setup function 1: Action 1: Open gripper, Action 2: Close gripper, Feedback 1: Gripper open, Feedback 2: Gripper closed; as well as at least one second setup function 2: Action 1: Gripper up, Action 2: Gripper down, Feedback 1: Gripper up, Feedback 2: Gripper down; ...etc. Reference symbol list 1 Control 10 HMI or user interface 11 (Functional) Sequence 12 variables, parameters, or corresponding levels 13. Setup level, setup functions 15 Configuration module 20 fixed program code 30 digital / analog inputs / outputs (I / O) 100 control unit

Claims

[1] Control unit (100) for at least one machine or plant engineering function sequence (11), wherein the control unit is freely programmable by a program code (20) defining a / the program of the control unit, wherein the control unit comprises: a software component and a hardware component with a predefined / predefinable number of digital and analog inputs and outputs (30), an HMI visualization for generating at least one HMI (10) for providing a user interface, and at least one configuration module (15); characterized by, that the control unit is programmed in a pre-configured form with predefined unchangeable program code, wherein the control unit is set up for changes to at least one functional sequence without programming or program code adjustment solely by means of the at least one configuration module (15), in particular based on parameterization. [2] Control unit according to claim 1, wherein a parameterization executable by means of the configuration module for changes of the at least one function sequence can be implemented via at least one variable, in particular via at least one variable from the following group: timeout threshold of individual steps of the function sequence, interlocking of individual functions of the function sequence against each other, movement, position; wherein the at least one variable is preferably predefinable via the HMI. [3] Control unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the configuration module is set up for user interaction in which inputs / outputs are first configurable and then the at least one function sequence is configurable; and / or wherein the configuration module in combination with the HMI visualization is designed such that a user only needs to integrate the inputs / outputs into the program to configure the function sequence and link the function sequence with individual functions; and / or wherein a plurality of individual functions are each linked with a setup function and can be manually set outside the sequence. [4] Control unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the HMI visualization comprises at least one monitor and / or is based on a web-based, in particular browser-based, IT infrastructure; and / or wherein the control unit is configured to generate the HMI for operation, in particular of setup functions, based on configured inputs / outputs and interlocks of individual functions against each other; and / or wherein the configuration module and the HMI visualization are correlated with each other in such a way that the configuration module of the HMI visualization determines the design of the HMI;and / or where the control unit is configured to specify the design of the HMI, in particular the HMI for operating setup functions, at least from the configuration of the inputs / outputs via the configuration module and optionally also from the locking of individual functions of the HMI visualization via the configuration module. [5] Control unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one functional sequence is configured according to the WYSIWYG principle, advantageously in a matrix, in particular with functions and corresponding actions / reactions listed in the columns and with individual program steps listed in the rows; and / or wherein each sequence step is correlated with an individually adjustable step timeout, wherein the number of steps is advantageously freely adjustable. [6] Control unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit consists of a pre-configured software component and a pre-configured hardware component. [7] Control unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit is configured to load the pre-configured configuration of the at least one function sequence including at least one setup function from a memory of the control unit, in particular upon request by a user via the HMI, especially via a selection menu for different function sequences stored in the control unit; and / or wherein the control unit comprises several configuration modules, wherein each configuration module is correlated with a specific of several function sequences, wherein each configuration module is advantageously operable via a / the corresponding HMI. [8] Control unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit is configured for an at least partially self-learning teaching mode, in particular comprising the following algorithm, which can be initiated via the HMI: the sequence of the functional process is manually executed in individual steps during setup mode; the behavior of the action and reaction of the individual inputs and outputs is automatically captured and recorded by the system; the individual steps are then executed by the system and the functional process or its configuration is generated from this; and / or wherein the control unit is configured for a live teaching mode, in particular comprising the following algorithm, which can be initiated via the HMI: the sequence of the functional process is manually executed in individual steps during the process; the behavior of the action and reaction of the individual inputs and outputs is captured and displayed live. [9] Control unit according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit is configured to store at least two different functional sequences or their configuration and to call them up independently of each other or in parallel, in particular via the HMI, and to run them. [10] Computer program product comprising commands which, when the computer program product is executed on a computer or in a control unit, cause it to execute a method for the programming-free configuration of a control unit for at least one machine or plant engineering function sequence in combination with user interaction controlled via the computer program product through an HMI and / or based on an at least partially self-learning teaching mode on the computer or in the control unit, in particular a computer program product set up for programming-free configuration of the control unit by at least one change to the at least one function sequence, in particular in response to user input via an HMI, with predefined unchangeable program code of the program of the control unit,and set up to generate a newly adapted HMI based on the configuration of inputs / outputs and optionally also on configured interlocks of individual functions, in particular with the HMI configured for operating at least one setup function. [11] Computer program product according to claim 10, configured for computer implementation of a method for programming-free configuration of a program of a control unit defined by a predefined program code for at least one machine or plant engineering functional sequence comprising the following steps: Configuring a predefined number of inputs / outputs, in particular by integrating them into individual functions of the program; Configure at least one functional sequence by linking it to a predefinable input / output. [12] User interface, in particular HMI, set up for a control unit that can be configured without programming according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the user interface is set up for at least one configuration-specific parameterization for changes to at least one function sequence of the control unit via at least one variable, in particular via at least one variable from the following group: timeout threshold of individual steps of the function sequence, interlocking of individual functions of the function sequence against each other, movement, position; wherein the at least one variable can be specified via the user interface. [13] Use of a configuration module for the programming-free configuration of a control unit pre-configured by a program with predefined immutable program code by at least one programming-free change to at least one machine or plant engineering function sequence of the control unit, wherein the configuration module is set up to act and communicate between at least one software component and at least one hardware component with a predefined number of digital and analog inputs and outputs and at least one HMI visualization for generating at least one user interface, in particular HMI, wherein the configuration module is set up to parameterize the function sequence via at least one variable that can be specified via the user interface. [14] Use of at least one algorithm activatable via an HMI for implementing at least a partially self-learning teaching mode on a control unit for changing at least one functional sequence by programming-free configuration, wherein the algorithm is set up to perform the configuration after manually going through the sequence of the new functional sequence, in particular individual steps in setup mode, and after capturing the behavior of action and reaction of individual inputs and outputs by system-initiated going through the individual steps and system-based generation of the new configuration of the new functional sequence.

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