PLC Programming Tool Integrating C-Code Editor for IEC61131 Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for programming and configuring programmable logic controllers (PLCs) lack direct access to system resources such as inputs, outputs, and memories, especially when using high-level languages like C, limiting the integration of C Code with IEC61131-3 code.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that integrate a C-Code editor within a programming tool, allowing the definition of interfaces between IEC61131 and high-level language codes, enabling direct access to system resources by generating and inserting library functions, thus allowing C Code programs to run parallel to IEC61131-3 programs on PLCs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If high-level languages like C are used for programming PLCs, then programming flexibility and access to system resources improve, but integration with IEC61131-3 code and access to PLC system resources deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer consisting of interface definitions and library functions that mediate between high-level language code and IEC61131-3 code. This intermediary layer provides standardized access points to PLC system resources, allowing C programmers to interact with the PLC environment without direct access to low-level interfaces, thus resolving the integration complexity while maintaining programming flexibility
2Reliability
If separate programming environments are used for IEC61131-3 and high-level languages, then language-specific functionality is optimized, but the need for multiple interface definitions and translation layers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal interface layer that serves multiple programming languages simultaneously. The library functions and interface definitions are designed to be language-agnostic, allowing both IEC61131-3 and high-level language programs to access PLC system resources through the same standardized interface, thereby reducing the need for separate interface definitions for each language
3Productivity
If C Code programs are integrated with IEC61131-3 programs, then both can run in parallel on PLCs, but direct access to system resources like inputs, outputs, and memories is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the access to system resources into distinct library functions, each responsible for a specific resource type (inputs, outputs, memories). This segmentation allows C Code programs to access system resources in a controlled manner through dedicated function calls, maintaining parallel execution capability while providing ease of access to system resources through a simplified interface
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device for the programming and configuration of a programmable logic controller are disclosed. The method can include: locating a configuration tool in a programming tool, wherein the configuration tool includes a module in an IEC61131 language; integrating at least one further module into the configuration tool, and executing the programming and configuration of the programmable logic controller in a high-level language using a C-Code editor, and wherein the at least one further module is configured to provide a definition of interfaces between an IEC61131 code and a high-level language code, and provide a configuration of the high-level language code.