Sequential Function Chart Generation with Integrated P&ID Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for generating sequential function charts (SFCs) in process control systems require frequent switching between piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) and text-based editors, leading to inefficiencies and errors due to the lack of integrated display of P&IDs and the complexity of manual coding in programming languages like SEBOL.
Innovation Solution
A processor-implemented method and system that enables the generation of executable SFCs by receiving equipment selection data, operation data, and control statements, assigning configuration parameters, and generating machine-readable program code within a unified display interface, integrating visual representations of equipment and control statements to reduce manual coding and improve usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual coding in text-based editors is used to generate SFCs, then programming flexibility is achieved, but operation complexity and error rate increase due to lack of integrated P&ID display
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the P&ID display and SFC code generation into a single integrated user interface. The system combines visual equipment representation with automatic code generation capabilities, eliminating the need for separate text-based editors and P&ID references. This integration allows operators to generate SFCs by interacting with visual equipment representations while the system automatically manages the underlying programming logic.
2Loss of information
If frequent switching between P&IDs and text editors is required, then comprehensive information access is achieved, but time efficiency decreases due to continuous context switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional workflow (switching between separate P&ID documents and code editors) to an integrated interface where both equipment visualization and code generation coexist in a unified workspace. The system displays equipment representations with associated control statements and parameters in the same interface, eliminating the need for physical or contextual switching between different tools and documents.
3Productivity
If automated code generation is implemented, then productivity increases, but programming language knowledge requirements decrease, reducing system capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the user interface and the underlying programming logic. This intermediary automatically translates user selections and parameter configurations into properly formatted SFC code and control statements. The system handles syntax, semantics, and language-specific requirements, allowing users to generate functional SFCs without needing to understand programming language nuances while maintaining full programming capability through the generated code.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides, methods, systems and computer program products that enable generation of executable sequential function charts, for subsequent retrieval and implementation by a process control system. In an embodiment, generating an executable sequential function chart comprises (i) receiving equipment selection data representing a selected equipment for implementing operating functions within a sequence flow, (ii) receiving operation data representing a set of operating functions intended to be implemented by the selected equipment, (iii) assigning values to one or more configuration parameters, (iv) receiving control statement data representing a set of control statements intended to be implemented for process flow control during implementation of the set of operating functions, (v) assigning values to one or more control statement configuration parameters, and generating machine readable SEBOL program code for implementing the set of operating functions.