PLC Input-Output Influence Matrix for Signal Clarity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex programmable logic controller (PLC) programming leads to clarity issues, making it difficult to understand which inputs interact with which outputs, especially in complex applications with many intermediate logical variables, requiring multi-page logic reports for relationship evaluation.
Innovation Solution
A device with a determination unit to assess the possible influence of input signals on output signals, converting this information into a matrix for easy visualization on a display unit, allowing users to quickly recognize input-output relationships without complex reports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex PLC programming with multiple intermediate logical variables is used to implement automation solutions, then the functionality and control capability are improved, but the clarity of input-output relationships deteriorates making it difficult to understand which inputs interact with which outputs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary tool (influence analysis device) that mediates between the complex PLC program and the user. This device automatically analyzes the program code, traces signal flows through intermediate logical variables, and generates clear influence reports that show which inputs affect which outputs, thus resolving the clarity issue without changing the underlying complex program structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of tracing through complex ladder diagrams and logic reports with an automated computational system. The influence analysis device uses computer-based analysis to automatically determine input-output relationships, substituting automated information processing for manual analysis and significantly improving clarity
2Ease of manufacture
If standard programming languages like FBD, LD, IL, or ST are used to program PLCs, then the ease of programming is improved through intuitive graphic symbols, but the complexity of understanding input-output relationships worsens in complex applications requiring multi-page logic reports
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the specific function of analyzing input-output relationships from the general PLC programming system. The influence analysis device separates this analytical function and implements it as a dedicated tool that focuses solely on determining and displaying which inputs influence which outputs, independent of the programming language used
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of information presentation by generating influence reports that transform complex program data into simplified input-output relationship displays. This parameter change converts detailed program code analysis into user-friendly influence matrices or reports that clearly show relationships without requiring users to interpret complex program structures
3Productivity
If multiple program modules (sheets, function blocks, macros) are combined to form PLC programs, then the productivity of programming is improved through modular design, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring input-output relationships worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary analysis device that bridges the gap between modular program structure and input-output relationship understanding. This device automatically traces through multiple program modules, function blocks, and macros to generate unified influence reports that show cross-module input-output relationships without requiring manual analysis of each module
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for creating a program for a programmable logic controller (PLC), comprising a programming input unit for selecting and assembling multiple symbols, and a generation unit for creating program code for the PLC from an arrangement of symbols displayed on the programming input unit. According to the invention, a detection unit is provided for determining, based on the possible influence of input signals of the PLC on its output signals resulting from the arrangement displayed on the program code or the arrangement of symbols. Furthermore, according to the invention, a conversion unit for converting the possible influence into a matrix and a display unit for displaying this matrix are provided.The invention further relates to a programming device for a programmable logic controller with such a device for creating a program, a corresponding method for programming a programmable logic controller and a corresponding computer program product.