Ladder Diagram Refactoring Using Replacement and Auxiliary Circuits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ladder diagram programs become increasingly complex as they scale, leading to reduced readability and debugging efficiency due to repeated partial circuits composed of multiple contacts.
Innovation Solution
A device that selects and replaces repeated partial circuits with smaller replacement circuits and inserts auxiliary circuits to maintain functionality, improving readability and debugging efficiency by reducing the number of contacts in the program.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ladder diagram program scale increases with repeated partial circuits, then program functionality and coverage are improved, but readability and debugging efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ladder diagram program into reusable circuit templates that can be instantiated multiple times. By segmenting the program into modular template-circuit pairs, the system maintains functionality while reducing visual complexity and improving readability through consistent structural patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates universal circuit templates that can serve multiple functions across different parts of the program. A single template definition can be instantiated numerous times with different parameters, providing versatile functionality while avoiding code duplication and maintaining centralized control over circuit design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If partial circuits with multiple contacts are used, then program functionality is improved, but the number of contacts increases leading to reduced readability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses template instantiation to create multiple copies of standardized circuit patterns. Instead of manually drawing complex circuits with many contacts, the system generates them by copying and parameterizing template definitions, which automatically optimizes the representation while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows circuit templates to be parameterized with variables that can be changed to adapt the same circuit pattern to different functional requirements. This enables functionality customization through parameter modification rather than structural changes, maintaining readability while providing versatility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual editing of repeated partial circuits is performed, then program customization is improved, but time consumption and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic template instantiation and parameter matching that reduces manual editing requirements. The system automatically generates circuit instances from templates and can auto-configure parameters based on context, allowing operators to focus on high-level design decisions rather than repetitive manual editing tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary circuit design work by creating standardized templates in advance. These pre-defined templates encapsulate common circuit patterns and logic, so that during program creation, operators only need to select and parameterize templates rather than design circuits from scratch, significantly improving productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A partial circuit selector selects a partial circuit comprising a plurality of contacts in a ladder diagram program. A replacement circuit generator generates a replacement circuit comprising a smaller number of contacts than in the selected partial circuit. An auxiliary circuit generator generates an auxiliary circuit that causes the replacement circuit to perform the same action as the partial circuit. A program editor performs, on the ladder diagram program, a replacement process for replacing a partial circuit appearing in the ladder diagram program with the replacement circuit, and performs an auxiliary circuit insertion process for inserting the auxiliary circuit into the ladder diagram program.