PLC Sequence Debugging with Device Dependency Value Grouping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Debugging sequence programs in programmable logic controllers (PLCs) is laborious due to the lack of direct display of related device values, requiring users to manually extract and verify device values.
Innovation Solution
A debug support device that extracts and displays group information associating result devices with their related factor devices, automatically determining and displaying the values of both, thereby simplifying the debugging process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the sequence program creation device extracts and displays only a list of related devices, then the device complexity is reduced, but the debugging efficiency deteriorates because users still need to manually check each device value
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the list of related devices with their corresponding device values into a single integrated display. The display unit shows both the extracted related devices and their current values simultaneously, eliminating the need for users to separately check each device value and thereby improving debugging efficiency while maintaining simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The display unit serves multiple functions: it acts as both a device list extractor and a value display interface. By making the display unit multi-functional, the system provides comprehensive debugging information in one place, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and efficiency
2Ease of operation
If the device values are not displayed with the related devices list, then the information presentation is simplified, but the debugging labor increases due to manual value checking
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically extracting and preparing the device values alongside the related devices list before the user needs them. The values are pre-fetched and organized, so when the user views the list, all necessary information is already ready, eliminating manual checking time
Solution Approach 2:
The display unit acts as an intermediary that automatically retrieves and presents device values. Instead of users manually querying each device, the display unit mediates by automatically obtaining and displaying all relevant values in one operation, reducing both effort and time
Data Source
AI summary
A debug support device includes: a root device extraction unit that extracts, from a sequence program that includes a circuit block including a plurality of devices, a result device on the basis of an association between a factor device that contributes to determination of a value of another device and the result device having the value determined by the factor device; a related device retrieval unit that retrieves, as a related device, each and every one of the factor device(s) that determines the value of the result device; and a display control unit that outputs group information to a display device. The group information is information on a group, associating the result device, the value of the result device, the related device, and a value of the related device.