Programmable Controller Surplus Time Allocation for Parallel Sequence Programs
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Solution Overview
Problem
In programmable controllers, extra time generated due to fluctuations in scanning time of sequence programs leads to inefficient operation, as it cannot be effectively utilized when multiple sequence programs are executed in parallel, resulting in wasted time.
Innovation Solution
A programmable controller that allocates executable time to multiple sequence programs at a predetermined ratio, accumulates extra time, and executes divided sequence programs in surplus time, ensuring efficient use of actual execution time by distributing surplus time among paths based on a settable allocation table.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple sequence programs are executed in parallel with predetermined time allocation, then the independence and stability of each sequence program execution is maintained, but extra time generated from scanning time fluctuations cannot be effectively utilized, leading to wasted time and reduced productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the extra time from multiple sequence programs into a shared pool that can be utilized by any program that completes its scanning early. This allows efficient redistribution of unused time resources across different sequence programs, improving overall time utilization while maintaining execution stability through the predetermined allocation framework
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic time allocation where the actual execution time of each sequence program is adjusted based on its scanning time fluctuations. The predetermined time allocation serves as a baseline, but the system dynamically redistributes extra time to programs that need it, creating a flexible yet stable execution environment
2Adaptability or versatility
If the scanning time of sequence programs fluctuates due to execution conditions, then the adaptability to different processing conditions is improved, but extra time is generated that cannot be utilized, leading to loss of time and reduced operation efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the actual scanning time of each sequence program is monitored and compared against the predetermined allocation. The extra time generated from fluctuations is fed back into the system and redistributed to programs that require additional time, creating a closed-loop time management system that eliminates time waste while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the time allocation parameter dynamically based on actual scanning performance. While the predetermined allocation provides a stable baseline, the system adjusts the actual time distribution by incorporating extra time from programs that completed early, optimizing time utilization without sacrificing adaptability to varying processing conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A programmable controller allocates times obtained by dividing executable time in one operation cycle to a plurality of paths, executes sequence programs of the paths in the respective allocated times, and accumulates remaining time as extra time when execution of each of the sequence programs ends before the end of the allocation time. When it is determined that surplus time occurs on the basis of the accumulated extra time, the programmable controller determines whether each of the sequence programs is executed after being divided, and executes a remainder of a divided sequence program in the surplus time in accordance with a result of the determination.