PLC Data Exchange Support Device with Dynamic Structure Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PLC architectures and data structures are manufacturer-specific, leading to difficulties in data exchange between different PLCs, even with the implementation of common communication standards, as data structures may not be uniform, resulting in potential information exchange failures and operational issues.
Innovation Solution
A support device that generates an executable program for a programmable logic controller (PLC) by defining variables and adapting data structures according to the type of connected PLC, enabling data exchange without relying on the specific type of the other communication party, through input units for variable definition, source program processing, and a generation unit that adjusts data structures accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If common communication standards are implemented for PLC connection, then PLC connectivity and system integration are improved, but data exchange reliability deteriorates due to non-uniform data structures across different manufacturers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a data structure conversion mechanism that acts as an intermediary between PLCs of different manufacturers. The system automatically detects the data structure of the communication partner and performs real-time conversion to ensure compatible data exchange, thereby maintaining reliability while supporting diverse PLC architectures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts data structure parameters based on the detected PLC type. By changing parameters such as data format, byte order, and structure layout according to the specific PLC manufacturer and model, the system ensures reliable data exchange across different platforms without sacrificing connectivity flexibility
2Reliability
If manufacturer-specific PLC architectures are used, then data structure compatibility within the same manufacturer is improved, but system adaptability deteriorates due to inability to exchange data with different manufacturers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic data structure adaptation system that automatically adjusts to different PLC architectures. The system detects the communication partner's PLC type and dynamically reconfigures data structures, formats, and protocols to ensure compatibility, thereby enabling cross-manufacturer adaptability while maintaining internal consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal data exchange framework that can handle multiple PLC manufacturers and models through a single system. By incorporating detection and conversion capabilities for various data structures, the system achieves multi-functionality that maintains compatibility within each manufacturer while enabling cross-manufacturer communication
3Productivity
If variable-based programming environment is introduced, then program reusability and shared processing are improved, but complexity of data structure management deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automatic data structure management system that performs detection, conversion, and adaptation without requiring manual intervention. The system automatically identifies PLC types, selects appropriate data structures, and handles conversions transparently, thereby reducing the complexity burden on users while preserving the benefits of variable-based programming
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a support device that supports easier data exchange between PLCs without relying on a type of a PLC of the other communication party. The support device includes: a first input unit for receiving information defining, on a data-by-data basis, variables for data handled by the first programmable logic controller; a second input unit for receiving a source program expressing processing executed on the first programmable logic controller using the defined variables; a third input unit for receiving information that identifies a type of a second programmable logic controller in association with a first variable; and a generation unit that generates the executable program using the information defining the variables and the source program. The generation unit adapts a data structure of first data secured in the memory in correspondence with the first variable in accordance with the type of the second programmable logic controller.