PC-based Logic Control Software

Version 4.2, the latest release of Visual Logic Controller (VLC) software, offers flow chart programming with On-Line Programming (OLP), enabling users to update the logic of their manufacturing operation control system while it is executing, and then allow testing of those changes to determine their validity. The machine cycle is not interrupted and the current status of all the flowcharts and RLL programs is maintained during OLP.

According to the company, OLP is implemented in a way that protects the integrity of the overall production machine and its control system. The flow chart language has the ability to automatically remember where the machine is in the process. The OLP preserves that knowledge and does not force the flow chart being changed to restart at the beginning when a change is made.

During the testing process, changes are compiled and loaded into the execution environment between one scan and the next. Since the scan time of the logic is not affected, the deterministic behavior of the control software is maintained during testing. If the changes are not correct, they can be discarded and the application reverts back to the previously running logic. The user can then edit the programs and make corrections to the changes.

Systems such as this are suitable for replacing traditional, proprietary controllers with PC-based technology throughout the food and beverage industries.

Features:

All standard I/O drivers with all development packages

Automatic display of the physical location of I/O points or wire numbers to assist with the debugging process

Ability to on-line cross reference any tag name using a single mouse click

InstantTips, which show the current value of any tag when the mouse is hovered over the tags name

Steeplechase Software, Inc., 1330 Eisenhower Place, Ann Arbor, MI 48108. Tel: 734-975-8100; Fax: 734-975-8123.