PLC Ladder AI Module Interfaces for Easier Function Block Calling
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Solution Overview
Problem
PLC programming engineers familiar with ladder programming lack proficiency in AI knowledge, limiting the implementation of AI module capabilities in PLC ladder programming environments, as AI modules are typically compiled in computer programming languages like C++ or C#, making it difficult to apply AI features effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that determine which AI module features to be called in the PLC ladder programming environment, configure them as interfaces conforming to the environment's specifications, package non-call methods into a DLL, and import this DLL, allowing the PLC to generate FB modules automatically, enhancing control capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If AI modules are compiled using computer programming languages like C++ or C#, then AI functionality and capabilities are achieved, but PLC programming engineers familiar with ladder programming cannot effectively apply these AI features due to lack of AI knowledge and language proficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer that translates AI module capabilities into PLC-compatible interface forms. This intermediary translation mechanism allows AI functions to be accessed through PLC programming without requiring engineers to master both AI knowledge and computer programming languages, thus resolving the contradiction between AI capability and programming ease
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates simplified copies or representations of AI module interfaces that conform to PLC programming standards. By copying the essential functionality in a PLC-friendly format, engineers can work with AI features using familiar ladder programming syntax without needing to understand the underlying complex AI implementation details
2Adaptability or versatility
If all AI module features are made available in the PLC programming environment, then complete AI functionality is accessible, but the interface complexity and difficulty of operation increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential and commonly used AI features that are most relevant to PLC applications. By selectively taking out and exposing only the necessary interface elements in PLC-compatible form, the system maintains AI functionality while reducing interface complexity to a manageable level for PLC programmers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the comprehensive AI module interface into smaller, more manageable interface components that align with PLC programming structures. This segmentation breaks down the complex monolithic interface into discrete, independently accessible units that are easier to understand and implement in ladder programming
Data Source
AI summary
A method for calling a program module in a programmable logic controller (PLC) ladder programming environment comprises: determining a first feature to be called in a PLC ladder programming environment and a second feature not to be called from features implemented by an artificial intelligence (AI) module compiled by a computer programming language; configuring the first feature as an interface conforming to an interface specification of the PLC ladder programming environment; configuring the second feature as a non-call method; packaging the non-call method and the interface into a dynamic link library (DLL); importing the DLL into the PLC ladder programming environment.