Graphical Programming Environment for Industrial Control Logic

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional text-based programming languages require extensive knowledge and are inefficient for automating complex industrial processes, as they demand recompilation and are resource-intensive, making it difficult to implement dynamic control systems and optimize processes without manual intervention.

Innovation Solution

A graphical programming environment that uses models like expert systems, fuzzy logic, and genetic optimization algorithms, allowing users to create and modify control systems without compilation, enabling real-time feedback and dynamic process control through a graphical user interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If text-based programming languages are used for automation, then control logic can be implemented, but extensive programming knowledge is required and recompilation is needed for modifications

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAbility to modify control logicVSAvoidProgramming knowledge requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces text-based programming mechanics with a graphical programming environment where control logic is constructed using visual blocks and diagrams. This substitution eliminates the need for text compilation and extensive programming knowledge, allowing users to modify control logic through drag-and-drop operations on graphical elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses graphical representations that copy and visualize control logic concepts in a more accessible format. Instead of abstract text code, the system creates visual copies of control structures that can be easily understood and modified by users without deep programming expertise.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Productivity

If text-based programming is used, then automation can be achieved, but the process is resource-intensive and requires manual compilation and loading

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAutomation implementation speedVSAvoidCompilation and loading time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes the compilation and loading mechanism with a runtime interpretation model. Graphical programs are executed directly without requiring manual compilation steps, eliminating the time loss associated with traditional text-based programming workflows.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional programming approaches are used, then control systems can be built, but dynamic modifications require total recompilation

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveDynamic control capabilityVSAvoidRecompilation process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control by allowing modifications to graphical program elements at runtime without requiring total recompilation. Users can add, remove, or modify graphical blocks and their connections dynamically, enabling adaptive control systems that respond to changing conditions without complex recompilation processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Productivity

If experienced programmers are used to create automation solutions, then efficient code can be produced, but such programmers are in short supply and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAutomation solution qualityVSAvoidProgramming expertise availability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the need for experienced text-based programmers with a graphical programming system that makes automation accessible to users without advanced programming expertise. The visual interface and block-based logic construction enable domain experts to create efficient automation solutions directly, eliminating the bottleneck of scarce skilled programmers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS9058029B2System and method for creating a graphical control programming environment

Publication Date: 2015.06.16 RADL BRAD

AI summary

A system and method for generating modeling software for processing control, used in power plant control, cement plants or other industrial control applications, using models such as expert systems, fuzzy logic, genetic optimization algorithms, and neural networks to convert sensor data into actionable data, information and/or diagnostics. The present invention includes a graphical programming environment, graphical programming tools, graphical user interface (GUI), visual feedback, real-time refresh, run-time object swap, logic standby (safety recovery), modeling and optimization to allows a user to create a control system for an industrial process, and that allows the user to change the process without any manual compile, assemble or load steps other than a save and refresh pushbutton.