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A new approach to PLC software design.
Gregor Kandare1, Giovanni Godena, Stanko Strmcnik
1Josef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, SI-1001 Ljubljana, Slovenia. gregor.kandare@ijs.si
ISA Transactions
|April 24, 2003
Summary
This study introduces ProcGraph, a novel procedural modeling language for programmable logic controller (PLC) software development. This model-based approach enhances abstraction and simplifies industrial control system software design.
Area of Science:
- Computer Science
- Control Engineering
Background:
- Traditional programmable logic controller (PLC) software development often lacks high-level abstraction for procedural logic.
- Existing methods can be complex and time-consuming for intricate control systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel model-based approach for PLC software development.
- To introduce a new procedural modeling language, ProcGraph, for enhanced software specification.
- To develop a supporting software tool for graphical design and automatic code generation.
Main Methods:
- Development of the ProcGraph procedural modeling language.
- Creation of a software tool for graphical model design and automatic code generation.
- Testing the ProcGraph notation in industrial application software development.
Main Results:
- ProcGraph enables software specification at a higher level of abstraction, focusing on the procedural aspects of control systems.
- The supporting software tool facilitates efficient graphical model design.
- Automatic code generation capabilities were demonstrated.
- Successful testing of the notation in industrial software development.
Conclusions:
- The model-based approach using ProcGraph offers a more abstract and potentially efficient method for PLC software development.
- The developed software tool effectively supports the ProcGraph modeling language.
- ProcGraph shows promise for simplifying the creation of software for industrial control applications.