Abstract:
In the field of automation technology, processes, which are controlled by stored program controllers (2), are divided into modules, which are also known as function blocks. If possible, these function blocks should be used universally. The interfaces of these modules are different from or independent of the technological parameters of the actual technical function. It is a problem for the user to have access to internal knowledge of the program in order to implement the controller (2) for a specific application. To address this and other problems, a programming tool and programming method for creating programs are disclosed, which will provide the user (1), either additionally or alternatively, with technological insight into a process that is to be controlled and/or regulated. An interface (3) is connected between the user (1) and the stored program controller (2), and a plurality of input masks (5) is offered to the user (1) for inputting technological parameters of the process. Therein a respective input mask (5) is assigned to at least a part of the function blocks.
Abstract:
In the field of automation technology, processes, which are controlled by stored program controllers (2), are divided into modules, which are also known as function blocks. If possible, these function blocks should be used universally. The interfaces of these modules are different from or independent of the technological parameters of the actual technical function. It is a problem for the user to have access to internal knowledge of the program in order to implement the controller (2) for a specific application. To address this and other problems, a programming tool and programming method for creating programs are disclosed, which will provide the user (1), either additionally or alternatively, with technological insight into a process that is to be controlled and/or regulated. An interface (3) is connected between the user (1) and the stored program controller (2), and a plurality of input masks (5) is offered to the user (1) for inputting technological parameters of the process. Therein a respective input mask (5) is assigned to at least a part of the function blocks.
Abstract:
A stage lighting system is comprised of a plurality of lamp units which may have diverse communication protocols, functions and data parameters. The stage lighting system is controlled by a modular control system comprised of a modular controller mainframe interconnected with a plurality of control devices which may have diverse communications protocols and data formats. The modular controller mainframe consists of a plurality of input and output modules, mass storage devices and a main processor kernel, all interconnected by a number of data buses. The input modules serve as an interface between the modular controller mainframe and the diverse protocols of the various control devices. Similarly, the output modules serve as an interface between the modular controller mainframe and the diverse protocols of the various types of lamp units. The modular controller mainframe serves as an interface system by providing one or more of said input or output modules with the capability of translating parameter commands, where necessary, to accommodate control devices having diverse communications protocols and output devices having diverse communications protocols, functions and data formats. The system may also include a distributed control system for a lighting system in which two or more fully-functional control devices are online simultaneously to control any function of any of a plurality of luminaries from the control devices. Various methods for arbitrating and resolving conflicts between or among plural control consoles are also used.