Virtual PLC Connection Mapping for Easy Engineering Tool Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing simulation methods for programmable logic controllers (PLCs) in factory automation systems require users to manage complex correspondence between virtual PLCs and IP addresses and port numbers, increasing procedural load for easy connection.
Innovation Solution
A simulation program and device that automatically acquires configuration information, assigns IP addresses and port numbers to virtual PLCs, and responds to engineering tools with connection information, simplifying the connection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple virtual PLCs are built on a single computer with a single IP address, then resource utilization is improved, but the complexity of managing IP address and port number correspondence increases
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation device automatically assigns port numbers to virtual PLCs and manages the correspondence between IP addresses and port numbers without requiring user intervention. The device serves itself by autonomously generating connection information and responding to engineering tools, eliminating the need for users to manually manage the complex mapping relationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The simulation device acts as an intermediary between the engineering tool and multiple virtual PLCs. It receives designation requests from the engineering tool, automatically determines the appropriate IP address and port number combinations, and returns the correct connection information, thereby shielding users from the complexity of direct management.
2Measurement precision
If users manually specify IP address and port number for connecting to virtual PLCs, then connection precision is improved, but the procedural load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation device pre-establishes and stores the correspondence between virtual PLCs, IP addresses, and port numbers before connection requests are made. When an engineering tool needs to connect to a virtual PLC, the simulation device has already prepared the connection information, eliminating the need for users to perform manual specification procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The simulation device implements a feedback mechanism where it receives designation requests from engineering tools, automatically determines the appropriate connection parameters, and returns the correct IP address and port number information. This automated feedback loop replaces manual user actions while maintaining precise connections.
Data Source
AI summary
A simulation program causes a computer to function as a configuration information acquirer that acquires configuration information generated based on a user operation and indicating a configuration of a virtual PLC system to simulate an operation of a PLC system, a builder that builds the virtual PLC system based on the configuration information, an assigner that assigns, to a virtual PLC included in the virtual PLC system indicated by the configuration information, an IP address and a port number of an unoccupied port of the computer, a designation request receiver that receives, from an engineering tool, a designation request designating a virtual PLC included in the virtual PLC system indicated by the configuration information, and a connection information responder that responds to the engineering tool with connection information including the IP address and the port number assigned to the virtual PLC designated in the designation request.