Machine Vision Ethernet Output Preview for Easier PLC Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The programming of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) in machine vision systems is hindered by their limited capabilities and the need for specific communication protocols, making it difficult to decipher and transmit machine vision data effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that configures machine vision jobs on a computing device, formats output data streams for communication with PLCs, and displays representations of output messages to facilitate easier programming, including user selection and formatting of data fields, headers, and raw data modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If machine vision data is transmitted as binary representation to PLC, then communication protocol compatibility is improved, but data decipherability and programming ease deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary software layer that sits between the machine vision system and the PLC. This intermediary translates binary data into human-readable formats (ASCII, hexadecimal, decimal) and provides a configuration interface that simplifies PLC programming. The intermediary acts as a mediator that maintains binary communication protocol compatibility while presenting simplified data representations to programmers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates multiple copies or representations of the same data in different formats. The binary data is simultaneously maintained in its original form for communication with the PLC and copied into human-readable formats for programming and debugging purposes. This allows programmers to work with simplified representations while the actual communication uses the required binary protocol.
2Adaptability or versatility
If PLC programming follows specific communication protocols, then device compatibility is improved, but programming complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service configuration system where the software automatically generates PLC programming code based on user-defined parameters. The system provides default configurations, auto-detects communication requirements, and generates ready-to-use programming templates. This self-service approach reduces programming complexity while maintaining compatibility with various PLC devices through standardized protocol support.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal configuration tool that can work with multiple PLC brands and communication protocols through a single interface. The software implements multi-functionality by supporting various protocols (Ethernet, serial, fieldbus) and generating code for different PLC platforms, eliminating the need for separate programming tools for each device type.
3Adaptability or versatility
If machine vision system uses third-party computing devices, then system functionality is improved, but integration difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by providing pre-configured communication templates, default data formats, and standardized integration interfaces. The system prepares communication protocols, data mapping, and error handling routines in advance, so that integrating third-party devices becomes a matter of selecting from pre-built options rather than creating integration logic from scratch.
Data Source
AI summary
An industrial Ethernet configuration tool with preview capabilities is disclosed herein. An example implementation includes a computing device for executing an application, the application operable to configure a machine vision job, wherein configuring the machine vision job includes: (1) configuring at least one tool to be executed by the imaging device during an execution of the job; (2) configuring an output data stream based on the at least one tool, the output data stream being formatted for communication to the a third-party computing device; and (3) displaying a representation of an output message, the output message being formed based on: (i) the configuring the output data stream, and (ii) previously acquired job run data, the output message being a representation of a transmission of a message from the imaging device to the third-party computing device.