CA2050957A1 - Control system - Google Patents
Control systemInfo
- Publication number
- CA2050957A1 CA2050957A1 CA 2050957 CA2050957A CA2050957A1 CA 2050957 A1 CA2050957 A1 CA 2050957A1 CA 2050957 CA2050957 CA 2050957 CA 2050957 A CA2050957 A CA 2050957A CA 2050957 A1 CA2050957 A1 CA 2050957A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- operator
- control system
- touch sensitive
- sensitive display
- equipment
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
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- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 18
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 23
- 230000033001 locomotion Effects 0.000 claims description 18
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 27
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 27
- 238000004886 process control Methods 0.000 description 15
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 13
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 8
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000003750 conditioning effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000006978 adaptation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000004590 computer program Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000013024 troubleshooting Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 1
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- 210000004209 hair Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000010354 integration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007619 statistical method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05B—CONTROL OR REGULATING SYSTEMS IN GENERAL; FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF SUCH SYSTEMS; MONITORING OR TESTING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SUCH SYSTEMS OR ELEMENTS
- G05B19/00—Programme-control systems
- G05B19/02—Programme-control systems electric
- G05B19/04—Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers
- G05B19/10—Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers using selector switches
- G05B19/106—Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers using selector switches for selecting a programme, variable or parameter
- G05B19/108—Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers using selector switches for selecting a programme, variable or parameter characterised by physical layout of switches; switches co-operating with display; use of switches in a special way
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
- G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
- G06F3/033—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C45/00—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor
- B29C45/17—Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations
- B29C45/76—Measuring, controlling or regulating
- B29C2045/7606—Controlling or regulating the display unit
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05B—CONTROL OR REGULATING SYSTEMS IN GENERAL; FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF SUCH SYSTEMS; MONITORING OR TESTING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SUCH SYSTEMS OR ELEMENTS
- G05B2219/00—Program-control systems
- G05B2219/20—Pc systems
- G05B2219/23—Pc programming
- G05B2219/23138—Linear, bar display of variables
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05B—CONTROL OR REGULATING SYSTEMS IN GENERAL; FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF SUCH SYSTEMS; MONITORING OR TESTING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SUCH SYSTEMS OR ELEMENTS
- G05B2219/00—Program-control systems
- G05B2219/20—Pc systems
- G05B2219/23—Pc programming
- G05B2219/23157—Display process, synoptic, legend, pictogram, mimic
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05B—CONTROL OR REGULATING SYSTEMS IN GENERAL; FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF SUCH SYSTEMS; MONITORING OR TESTING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SUCH SYSTEMS OR ELEMENTS
- G05B2219/00—Program-control systems
- G05B2219/20—Pc systems
- G05B2219/23—Pc programming
- G05B2219/23377—Touch screen, with representation of buttons, machine on screen
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
- Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
- Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
- Injection Moulding Of Plastics Or The Like (AREA)
Abstract
Abstract of the Disclosure The instant invention discloses a control system by which an operator controls equipment by selectively changing the operation condition thereof and which facilitates interaction between the control system and the operator. The control system comprises a device for receiving at least one input signal from the equipment being controlled which is a function of at least one operating condition thereof. The system also includes a touch sensitive display screen for representing the control system to the operator and at least one object represented on said touch sensitive display screen for displaying the at least one operating condition in response to receipt of the input signal. The object is a graphic representation of a mechanical control device used on control panels and, thus, is a familiar sight to the unskilled worker, who is typically ill at ease with computers. Devices for manipulating the object are also included and cause a change in the value thereof on the display screen to indicate a change in the operation condition. The manipulation devices are also graphic representations of control devices from control panels which also facilitates worker interaction with the system. The system also includes a device for generating an output signal to be transmitted to the equipment which is a function of the change in value of the object caused by the manipulation device.
Description
2~5~
Fiela of the Invention The instant invention relates to control of factory or other operations including process or machine control systems, and more particularly, to methods and devices for facilitating ease of operator interaction with process control computer programs.
Ba~kground of the Invention It is known that many factory and other workers have difficulty in adapting to the use of computer controlled systems within the work environment. An example of this problem occurs in the area of control systems. Here, in previous systems, not employing computers, the factory worker operated the factory control system via three-dimensional manual controls on control panels and viewed information on information display areas of the control panel. The factory worker manipulated these manual controls, such as levers, knobs, toggle switches, and push buttons, etc., by hand.
Presently, in computerized control systems, the factory worker is requested to provide the same information and adjustments as with the manual control panel. However, in computerized systems the factory worker provides that information via computer program activated prompts rather than the manual manipulation of the control panel. Unfortunately, unskilled personnel with limited previous experience related to computers have difficulty adapting to this change in the provision of information.
This problem is avoided in present systems by incorporating the mechanical devices into the computerized control 0 ~ ~ 7 system. For example in U.S. Patent No.( ~ 697,2 ~ to Boytor et al, a machine control system is disclosed having a CRT on which is provided information relating to the control and programming of push buttons, selector switches, potentiometers, and the like (Column 3, lines 38-52; Column 7, lines 50-53). However, the push buttons and switches are not graphic displays on the CRT, but rather, manual mechanical devices as have been used in control systems for many years. A further example of such a system where manual, mechanical control panel devices are used in computer process control systems is seen in U.S. Patent No ~ 821,03 ~ to Batson et al. Thus, these systems retain the drawbacks of previous non-computerized process control systems such as added expense, maintenance, and likelihood of error.
Thus, present process control systems have not fully integrated the process control operations with computer technology.
The inability of the factory worker to adapt to such technology is an impediment to such integration.
8ummary of the Invention These and other objects of the present invention are provided in a control system by which an operator controls equipment by selectively changing the operation condition thereof and which facilitates interaction between the control system and the operator. The control system comprises a device for receiving at least one input signal from the equipment being controlled which is a function of at least one operating condition thereof. The system also includes a touch sensitive display screen for 2 ~ 7 representing the control system to the operator and at least one object represented on said touch sensitive display screen for displaying the at least one operating condition in response to receipt of the input signal. The object is a graphic representation of a mechanical control device used on control panels and, thus, is a familiar sight to the unskilled worker, who is typically ill at ease with computers. Devices for manipulating the object are also included and cause a change in the value thereof on the display screen to indicate a change in the operation condition. The manipulation devices are also graphic representations of control devices from control panels which also facilitates worker interaction with the system. The system also includes a device for generating an output signal to be transmitted to the equipment which is a function of the change in value of the object caused by the manipulation device.
The object may be manipulated in a similar manner as the operator would manipulate the mechanical control device of the control panel to effect a change in the operation condition.
A control svstem method is also disclosed which allows an operator to control equipment by selectively changing the operation conditions thereof and for facilitating interaction between a control system and the operator of the system by providing a touch sensitive display screen for representing the control system to the operator and for receiving input signals from the equipment, where the signal is a function of at least one operating condition thereof. The method also supplies at least one 2~:S~ 7 object on the touch sensitive display screen for displaying at least one operating condition. The object is a graphic representation resembling mechanical devices used on control panels. The at least one object is manipulated by touching the display screen to effect a response in the operating condition of the equipment. The manipulation of the object may comprise the touching of the display screen at the point where the object appears and in moving the touching along the display screen to accomplish manipulation of the object.
rief Description of the Drawing~
Figure 1 is a view of a main screen of a process control program in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 3 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 4 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 5 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a 2~ 3~5~
control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present nventlon;
Figure 6 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present nvention;
Figure 7 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 8 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 9 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 10 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure ll is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
2 ~ 7 Figure 12 is a detailed block diagram of the electrical circuits of the process control program of Figures 1-11;
Figure 13 is a detailed block diagram of the input/output interface and modules receiving input data from the system being controlled; and Figure 14 is a flow chart showing one application of the computer terminal of the present invention for the generation of appropriate ASCII codes to control one of the graphic representations viewed on the computer terminal.
Description of the Preferred Embodiment Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 is an illustration of the initial screen or main menu 10 of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is a process control system for controlling the processes related to plastic injection molding machinery. As is obvious to those of skill in the art, the instant invention is not limited to plastic injection mold systems, but, rather, may be used in virtually any type of control system.
A graphic representation of the plastic injection molding machine 11 is shown at the center of main menu lO. The graphic representation of the plastic injection molding machine 11 is preferably close to photographic quality in order to orient and familiarize the factory worker operator with the process control system and to correlate the control system to the machinery. The screen is viewed on a touch sensitive display screen to allow for easy operator interaction with the system. The main menu 10 also 2~t`i~
contains push button objects or touch targets which, when selected (i.e., touched), cause the control system to change screens from the main menu 10 to other process control screens relating to specific aspects of the process control of the plastic mold injection system and allowing the operator to adjust various parameters of the system being controlled.
For example, in this preferred embodiment of a plastic mold injection system, the following push buttons are employed on the main menu: push button 12 accesses the screen for setting up the opening of the clamp unit or mold, push button 14 allows for the setup of the ejector which displaces the molded part out of the mold, push button 16 allows for the setup of the various temperatures required during each phase of the plastic mold injection process, push button 18 allows for the setup of the nozzle for injection of the plastic, push button 20 establishes the parameters for the hydraulic ram as it pushes the plastic material into the mold, push button 24 accesses a data-gathering screen for the provision of information such as which factory worker is working with the system, timing and security clearances (for example, there may be different levels of security allowing various factory workers to access various levels of the system), push button 26 allows for the operator to request certain data upon the occurrence of certain events, push button 28 accesses real time profiles of process variables within the plastic mold injection system, push button 30 access SPC information (Statistical Process ~ g~
Control). The SPC information screen displays statistical analysis of the process, distribution curves, and trend charts, etc.
Push button 32 accesses a screen which allows for the placement of tolerances on the various processes within a plastic mold injection system, push button 34 accesses a screen wherein an operator can provide information relating to a machine breakdown and optionally track the length of time of the breakdown, push button 36 is the alarm push button which allows the operator to access a screen which provides information relating to a machine breakdown, and push button 38 allows the factory worker operator to access various types of status information for troubleshooting purposes.
Referring now to Figure 2, the screen accessed by injection push button 20 of Figure 1 is shown. In Figure 2, various control device objects are represented which establish the parameters for the injection of plastic into a mold. By adjusting these objects, the injection process parameters of the equipment are changed or controlled. These control device objects resemble various mechanical devices on control panels. Additionally in Figure 2, a bar graph object 43 graphically displays the various parameters of the injection process such as would be seen on a typical control panel. Figure 2 shows various calibrated scales 40, 42, and 46 which represent respectively the speed at which the injection ram moves between various positions, the position of the ram at the various steps of the injection cycle, and the pressure with which the injection ram is operating. The objects shown in 2 ~
Figure 2 are very similar to what a factory worker would see on a conventional control panel and, consequently, the worker is more familiar and at ease with a representation such as Figure 2 than with a typical computer prompt seen in most process control systems.
The scales 40, 42, and 46 increase or decrease the parameter's value by the operator touching the slider buttons 40A, 42A, and 46A and then moving the operator's finger along the calibrations included in each scale. The control system causes the slider button to move along with the operator's finger and remain where the operator's last movement occurred. When the operator has correctly changed a parameter (speed, position, or pressure), the operator presses the "yes" button 45. This changes the prior status of the parameter to the new value.
Upon activating the "yes" button 45, an output control signal is sent to the equipment and the information logged into the system is reflected by a proportional change in the bar graph 43.
For example, if the pressure slide 46A is increased, line 48 of bar graph 43 moves in an upward direction to indicate pressure throughout the injection process. If the position slider 42A for step 4 i5 altered, the width of the fourth bar from the left 44 in bar graph 43 is altered accordingly. Finally, if the speed is changed by movement of slider 40A and a particular bar 44 of graph 43 is selected, the height of that bar 44 is altered. Particular bars 44 may be selected for adjustment by touching the bar desired or, for narrow bars, via cursors 49 also seen in the bottom of Figure 2. Fine tuning of the desired increase or decrease the sliders is possible via push buttons 47 seen in the lower portion of Figure 2.
The buttons on the far right-hand side of Figure 2 allow the operator to access other screens relating to the injection mold process. For example, push button 52 accesses a screen shown in Figure 3 which controls how long and under what pressure the plastic material is held until it freezes. Once again calibrated scales 52 and 54 are shown. Additionally, a bar graph 58 indicating the time, speed, and pressure of the hold pattern can also be seen at the center of Figure 3. The scales and bar graphs of Figure 3 may be manipulated in the same manner as the scales and bar graphs of Figure 2. A new object is also seen in Figure 3.
This object is the dial timer 60 showing the overall hold time of the plastic in the mold. The timer may be altered by touching and use of push buttons 47 as with Figure 2. Note the resemblance of the graphic dial indicator to an actual dial indicator on a conventional control panel. This similarity is achieved through details such as thumbwheels 61 seen to the right-hand side of each digit. In this instance, the thumbwheels are not touch targets (i.e., they cannot be used to alter the digits).
Referring now to Figures 1 and 4, the temperature push button 16 of Figure 1 accesses a screen shown in Figure 4 indicating the various temperatures at various points within the plastic mold injection system. The four objects 58 display various temperature information including actual temperature of the zone in the boxes 55 below thermometers 57. Arrows 62, 63, and 64 indicate the maximum, set and minimum possible temperatures for each zone on the thermometers 57. The maximum, set and minimum temperatures are set by touching rectangles 56 within area 58 for each area. A temperature set screen is then accessed (see discussion regarding Figure 5). Buttons 62A, 63A, 64A, and 65 are view-only buttons for the individual zones. As with the previous screens, the screen of Figure 4 closely resembles a mechanical control panel with which a typical worker is familiar.
Thus, operator interaction with the contro] system is facilitated.
The temperatures of Figure 4 are changed in the following manner. Referring now to Figure 5, this screen relates to the barrel temperature and is accessed through the screen shown in figure 4 by touching rectangles 56 above thermometers 57 in the area 58 labeled "BARREL TEMPERATURES 1-4". The other areas 58 are accessed in a similar manner. To adjust the temperature for a particular zone, the operator merely touches one of the buttons 68 for each zone. A slider device 70 then appears before the thermometer 65. The operator touches the slider and moves his finger until the slider is at the desired value. As in the previous figures, the temperature may be fine-tuned via incremental and decremental push buttons 47 in the lower part of the screen. Once an acceptable change has been made, the changes are logged into the system via the "yes" button push button 45 also in the lower portion of Figure 5 and an output temperature control signal is sent to the equipment. The selected button 68 and the thermometer arrow 69 then display the new value.
2 ~ 5 ~
The thermometer objects 65 of Figure 5 are structured like thermometers 57 of Figure 4 so that the interior area of the thermometer is filled with color or shaded to the level representing the actual temperature in each zone. The exact temperature reading is then indicated in the window 66 dir~ctly beneath each thermometer as in Figure 4. The maximum, minimum, set, and preheat temperatures are shown to the side of each thermometer 65 in windows 68. Arrows 69 indicate the point on the thermometer for each of these particular temperatures.
Also shown in Figure 5 are objects 67 representing toggle switches. The toggle switches are moved from one position to another by touching the center area of the toggle switch 70. For example, with the toggle switch 67 of zone 1, to move the toggle switch to the preheat position, one touch is required and to move the toggle switch to the proheat position two touches are necessary. The proheat temperature is the production heat or set value as seen in Figures 4 and 5. While actual control panel toggle switches are operated by a touching and turning motion and the graphic toggle switches of the instant invention are operated by a touching motion only, Applicants have found that the operations are still so similar so as not to cause operator confusion. In the instant example of a plastic mold injection system, toggle switches 67 are used in Figure 5 to raise the temperature in a particular zone from the preheat status once proheat is selected, thereby allowing production to begin in that zone or to raise the temperature from an off condition to a preheat condition.
Referring now to Figure 6, this screen is accessed through the main menu of Figure 1 via a push button 14. Figure 6 shows the screen for the setup of the ejector which displaces the molded part from the mold after the setting of the part. A number of different objects are shown in Figure 6. For example, toggle switch 72 allows for the turning on and off of the ejector setup portion of the control system. Additionally, calibrated scales 74 and 84 define the position of the mold. When the mold travels to that position, ejection of the part starts. Ejection occurs either by a mechanical or hydraulic system (related to scale 74) or by an air blow system (related to scale 84). Digital timers 76 and 80 show the elapsed time for the ejector return delay and air blow time, respectively. Digital counter 78 counts the number of times the ejector is activated. Once again, the digital timers and counter show graphic representations of some thumbwheels 77, 79, and 81 to the right of each digit in order to facilitate the factory wor~er's interaction with the system. Additionally, another toggle switch 82 is shown in the lower left-hand portion of Figure 6.
The toggle switches are operated as indicated with respect to Figure 5 in that the operator need only touch the circular switch area to move it from one position to the other.
The two calibrated scales 74 and 84 may have their value changed by touching the slider buttons 74A and 84A and dragging the finger to the right or left to increase or decrease the value as one would do with a mechanical slider on an actual control panel. The dial timers and counter 76, 78, and ~o may be adjusted by pressing the area of the timers and then using the incremental and decremental push buttons 47 to change the time. Once any such changes have been logged into the system via the "yes" button 45, an output control signal is sent to the equipment. Additionally, the screen of Figure 6 shows the actual lapsed time for each parameter of the ejector program in windows 85, 86, and 87.
Referring now to Figure 7, another type object 89 is shown. This object represents an LED-type readout from a control panel. Once again, such an object facilitates the factory worker's use of computerized process control systems. Figure 7 is accessed via the main menu of Figure 1 through maintenance button 38.
Figure 7 may represent the actual condition of digital or analog inputs or outputs of the plastic mold injection system and is used for troubleshooting the system. In this example of Figure 7, digital inputs are represented. For example, if the system breaks down or is operating improperly, the factory worker can access Figure 7 and check the status of various inputs to the system. The status of the various parameters such as mold closing 90, mold opening 91, and carriage forward 92 are indicated via LED-resembling objects 90A, 91A, and 92A. In this embodiment, if the specific input is sensed by the system, the objects representing the LEDs are colored or shaded, and if they are not, the objects' 2'~
interior is left blank. Thus, the factory worker recognizes whether the breakdown is a result of a faulty input.
Referring now to Figure 8, other objects bearing resemblance to a mechanical control panel are shown These objects are dial gauges 100, 102, and 104 representing, respectively, clamp pressure, clamp speed, and clamp time. Figure 8 is accessed via the main menu of Figure 1 by pressing push button 12 resulting in the appearance of the screen for setting up the opening of the clamp which then accesses a clamp screen having a push button indicating actual value. When the operator accesses the actual value push button by touching it, the screen of Figure 8 is brought up. Figure 8 shows, via dial gauges 100, 102, and 104, the actual status of certain aspects of the plastic mold injection system.
As with a typical dial gauges found on mechanical control panels, the face of the dial gauge indicates the value for that particular gauge. Consequently, the factory worker operator is further familiarized with the process control system. The calibrated scale object 105 of Figure 8 shows the actual position of the clamp via a horizontally moving needle indicator 105A.
Referring now to Figure 9, an oscilloscope-like object 106 is shown. This screen is accessed from the main menu of Figure 1 via push button 28. Four graph profiles 107, 108, 109, and 110 are seen representing, respectively, hydraulic pressures, screw speed, cavity pressure, and the screw position. The profile graphs relate to the actual value sampled at fast sample rates. The limits of the graph may be altered by touching and sliding buttons 2 ~ ~ ~ ~ 5 7 113 and 114. Button 113 adjusts the y or unit value and button 114 adjusts the time base. The cross hairs 112 shown in the middle of the oscilloscope can be used for displaying the actual value of the profile where it intersects the graph and may be adjusted by 5 touching slider button 115 and sliding the button to the desired point.
Another type object resembling mechanical control panels is shown in Figure 10. This object 125 represents a text list.
The screen of Figure 10 is accessed from the main menu's alarm push 10 button 36. The factory worker operator can scroll through the text list by touching the incremental and decremental buttons 120 in the lower portion of the screen and thereby highlighting each text listing as the operator scrolls through the list. Additionally, the operator can clear alarms by highlighting the alarm description 122 with push buttons 120 or by touching the highlighted text portion 123 and moving the highlighted bar to the desired text portion, and pressing the "clear this alarm button" 124.
Referring more specifically now to Figure 11, a screen for providing information to the process control system for 20 instructing the system where to log data is shown. This screen is accessed via the main menu of Figure 1 through push button 26.
Once again, toggle switches 130 and 132 are shown, as well as slider 134, which resemble actual three-dimensional objects from a mechanical control panel. In order to instruct the system where 25 to log data, the operator first highlights the title of the screen containing the information desired to be moved in the "screens to ~ ~3 ~ 7 log" area 136. The titles are highlighted by scrolling through the list using cursors 49 and pushing "yes" button 45 when the cursor highlights the correct titles. An asterisk 131 is then placed beside the chosen title. Once the particular screen is selected, the logging destination 138 is selected by touching the push button next to the particular location 140, 142, or 146 representing, respectively, the host computer, a printer, or a floppy disk. The logging system is turned on via the toggle switch 130 by pressing the toggle area.
10Referring now to Figure 12, there is shown a block diagram of the internal circuitry of the system of the present invention. The internal circuitry of the system comprises, among other conventional items, a graphics module 150 containing a graphic CPU 151, video controller 152, display memory 153, picture 15and object memory 154 (which is preferably a flash-type memory), CPU memory 155, printer port 156, universal asynchronous receiver transmitter (UART) 157, and small computer system interface controller 158, all connected in a conventional manner as is known to those of skill in the art as shown in Figure 12.
20The graphics module 150 is linked to a display station 160 via video graphics array output 162. The display station typically contains both a hard disk drive and floppy drive 164 and 166, respectively. The screen 168 of the display station is touch sensitive and the touch x-y decoded signals are connected to the 25universal asynchronous receiver transmitter 157 via bus 170. The 2~.3~n57 graphics module 150 and display station 160 are connected to the input/output processor of the system via VME bus 175.
The I/0 processor 180 is conventional in nature and comprises the following conventional elements, among other items, 5such as shared memory 181, a microcontroller 182, digital signal processor 183, processor 184, which are connected via local bus 185 to the local memory 186 and to A to D and D to A convertors 187 and 188, respectively. A to D and D to A convertors 187 and 188 are connected to the input/output signal conditioning devices 190 via 10multiplexers 191 and 192, as shown in Figure 12. The I/0 signal conditioning devices 190 are contained within the I/0 interface 200 generally seen in Figure 13. Output signals 204 resulting from the control system's programmed status or the operator's changes are transmitted to the equipment being controlled 15Referring now to Figure 13, a diagram of the types of input signals that may be interfaced to the I/0 system 180 of Figure 12. These devices represent typical I/0 signals and, as one skilled in the art will recognize, are not limited to these devices alone. Here, the I/0 interface 200 is shown receiving various 20typss of information 202 from the plastic mold injection system.
The I/0 interface includes the I/0 signal conditioning 190 of Figure 12. As is known to one of skill in art, smart sensors which can process the input data 202 digitally via a serial communication link such as the RS-232 may also be used for the input/output 25interface. The smart sensors process the analog sensor information, scale it in appropriate engineering limits, and transmit the data automatically to the I/O system 180. The transmission occurs in simple ASCII escape code format which is easily read by the I/O processor.
The output signals 204 of the instant invention control such items as, for example, motors, solenoids, and valves of the system being controlled In order to better understand the operation of the system of the present invention, the flow chart shown in Figure 14 will now be discussed. In Figure 14, there is shown a flow chart of a typical touch sensitive display screen operation. For illustrative purposes, a flow chart of the operation of one of the slider devices shown in the previous figures is described, although the operation and manipulation of other types of objects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from this description.
Referring now more particularly to Figure 14, the operation of the system starts at the main menu 300 (See Figure l).
At box 301, the circuits of the system wait until the touch sensitive screen detects that the surface of the screen has been touched. When the screen is touched, box 301 translates the touch response signals from the touch sensitive layer into x-y coordinates on the display surface of the display screen. If an x-y position is detected, the system proceeds depending upon the push button corresponding to the x-y position pressed in the main menu of Figure 1. In this example, the injection profile push button 20 of Figure 1 has be~n selected. Once the system has determined that the injection profile button has been selected, the 2~3~57 system displays the injection profile screen shown in Figure 2 as indicated by box 302. Once again, the circuits of the system wait until the touch sensitive screen of Figure 2 is touched. When the screen of Figure 2 is touched, box 303 translates the touch response signals from the touch sensitive layer into x-y coordinates on the display surface. Once a decoded x-y position is obtained, the program proceeds to box 304 where it is determined which object of screen 2 has been selected.
If a slider object representing speed has been selected, the program proceeds to box 305 and highlights the speed slider shown in Figure 2. The circuits of the system then wait to perceive movement of the highlighted speed slider box 306. If no vertical movement is detected, the system checks to see if horizontal movement is detected box 307. If no horizontal movement is detected, the system returns to box 302 because no movement occurs and the injection screen remains as is shown in Figure 2.
If, however, a horizontal movement is detected, the system proceeds to box 308 and decodes the x coordinate of the horizontal movement box 308. The system detects whether the x coordinate is increasing or decreasing box 309. If the x coordinate is not increasing, the system then checks in box 310 whether or not the x coordinate is decreasing. If the x coordinate is neither increasing nor decreasing, the system returns to box 302 and the injection display setup and no change is made. If, however, the x coordinate decreases or increases, the circuits of 2~5~
the system move the slider value horizontally in the direction of the increase or decrease boxes 311 and 312.
Returning to the detection of vertical movement in box 306, if movement is detected, the y coordinate of the movement is decoded box 313. The system then checks to see whether the y coordinate is increasing box 314. If the y coordinate does not increase, a check is then made in box 315 for a decrease in the y coordinate. If the y coordinate is neither increasing nor decreasing, once again the system returns to box 302 and merely displays the injection setup of Figure 2. If, however, an increase or decrease in the y coordinate is detected, the circuits of the system move the slider value vertically to indicate either the desired increase or decrease in the speed as seen boxes 316 and 317.
Once the movement is detected and the slider value is changed accordingly, the system continues to check whether or not the x-y coordinates are still changing in box 318. If the x-y coordinates are still changing, the system returns to either box 309 for increase in an x coordinate or box 314 for increase in the y coordinate. If the x or y coordinate is no longer changing, the movement of the slider is discontinued box 319. Then the system waits as seen in box 320 for the acceptance of the new slider value. The system accepts the new slider value if the operator presses the "yes" object on Figure 2 in box 321. If the "no"
object of Figure 2 is pressed, the slider value remains at its previous state and no change is made box 322.
In summary, a process control system is provided wherein interaction between factory worker operators and the process control system computer software is facilitated by the use of graphic representations in the computer software of familiar aspects of mechanical three-dimensional control panels. Since factory workers are familiar with and comfortable with such control panels, the difficulties of adapting an unskilled factory worker to new technology are obviated.
It will therefore be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those herein described, as well as many variations, modifications and equivalent arrangements will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing description thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention. Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended or to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise to exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications and equivalent arrangements, the present invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.
Fiela of the Invention The instant invention relates to control of factory or other operations including process or machine control systems, and more particularly, to methods and devices for facilitating ease of operator interaction with process control computer programs.
Ba~kground of the Invention It is known that many factory and other workers have difficulty in adapting to the use of computer controlled systems within the work environment. An example of this problem occurs in the area of control systems. Here, in previous systems, not employing computers, the factory worker operated the factory control system via three-dimensional manual controls on control panels and viewed information on information display areas of the control panel. The factory worker manipulated these manual controls, such as levers, knobs, toggle switches, and push buttons, etc., by hand.
Presently, in computerized control systems, the factory worker is requested to provide the same information and adjustments as with the manual control panel. However, in computerized systems the factory worker provides that information via computer program activated prompts rather than the manual manipulation of the control panel. Unfortunately, unskilled personnel with limited previous experience related to computers have difficulty adapting to this change in the provision of information.
This problem is avoided in present systems by incorporating the mechanical devices into the computerized control 0 ~ ~ 7 system. For example in U.S. Patent No.( ~ 697,2 ~ to Boytor et al, a machine control system is disclosed having a CRT on which is provided information relating to the control and programming of push buttons, selector switches, potentiometers, and the like (Column 3, lines 38-52; Column 7, lines 50-53). However, the push buttons and switches are not graphic displays on the CRT, but rather, manual mechanical devices as have been used in control systems for many years. A further example of such a system where manual, mechanical control panel devices are used in computer process control systems is seen in U.S. Patent No ~ 821,03 ~ to Batson et al. Thus, these systems retain the drawbacks of previous non-computerized process control systems such as added expense, maintenance, and likelihood of error.
Thus, present process control systems have not fully integrated the process control operations with computer technology.
The inability of the factory worker to adapt to such technology is an impediment to such integration.
8ummary of the Invention These and other objects of the present invention are provided in a control system by which an operator controls equipment by selectively changing the operation condition thereof and which facilitates interaction between the control system and the operator. The control system comprises a device for receiving at least one input signal from the equipment being controlled which is a function of at least one operating condition thereof. The system also includes a touch sensitive display screen for 2 ~ 7 representing the control system to the operator and at least one object represented on said touch sensitive display screen for displaying the at least one operating condition in response to receipt of the input signal. The object is a graphic representation of a mechanical control device used on control panels and, thus, is a familiar sight to the unskilled worker, who is typically ill at ease with computers. Devices for manipulating the object are also included and cause a change in the value thereof on the display screen to indicate a change in the operation condition. The manipulation devices are also graphic representations of control devices from control panels which also facilitates worker interaction with the system. The system also includes a device for generating an output signal to be transmitted to the equipment which is a function of the change in value of the object caused by the manipulation device.
The object may be manipulated in a similar manner as the operator would manipulate the mechanical control device of the control panel to effect a change in the operation condition.
A control svstem method is also disclosed which allows an operator to control equipment by selectively changing the operation conditions thereof and for facilitating interaction between a control system and the operator of the system by providing a touch sensitive display screen for representing the control system to the operator and for receiving input signals from the equipment, where the signal is a function of at least one operating condition thereof. The method also supplies at least one 2~:S~ 7 object on the touch sensitive display screen for displaying at least one operating condition. The object is a graphic representation resembling mechanical devices used on control panels. The at least one object is manipulated by touching the display screen to effect a response in the operating condition of the equipment. The manipulation of the object may comprise the touching of the display screen at the point where the object appears and in moving the touching along the display screen to accomplish manipulation of the object.
rief Description of the Drawing~
Figure 1 is a view of a main screen of a process control program in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 3 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 4 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 5 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a 2~ 3~5~
control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present nventlon;
Figure 6 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present nvention;
Figure 7 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 8 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 9 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 10 is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure ll is yet another view of a screen of a process control program bearing graphic representations resembling a control panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
2 ~ 7 Figure 12 is a detailed block diagram of the electrical circuits of the process control program of Figures 1-11;
Figure 13 is a detailed block diagram of the input/output interface and modules receiving input data from the system being controlled; and Figure 14 is a flow chart showing one application of the computer terminal of the present invention for the generation of appropriate ASCII codes to control one of the graphic representations viewed on the computer terminal.
Description of the Preferred Embodiment Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 is an illustration of the initial screen or main menu 10 of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is a process control system for controlling the processes related to plastic injection molding machinery. As is obvious to those of skill in the art, the instant invention is not limited to plastic injection mold systems, but, rather, may be used in virtually any type of control system.
A graphic representation of the plastic injection molding machine 11 is shown at the center of main menu lO. The graphic representation of the plastic injection molding machine 11 is preferably close to photographic quality in order to orient and familiarize the factory worker operator with the process control system and to correlate the control system to the machinery. The screen is viewed on a touch sensitive display screen to allow for easy operator interaction with the system. The main menu 10 also 2~t`i~
contains push button objects or touch targets which, when selected (i.e., touched), cause the control system to change screens from the main menu 10 to other process control screens relating to specific aspects of the process control of the plastic mold injection system and allowing the operator to adjust various parameters of the system being controlled.
For example, in this preferred embodiment of a plastic mold injection system, the following push buttons are employed on the main menu: push button 12 accesses the screen for setting up the opening of the clamp unit or mold, push button 14 allows for the setup of the ejector which displaces the molded part out of the mold, push button 16 allows for the setup of the various temperatures required during each phase of the plastic mold injection process, push button 18 allows for the setup of the nozzle for injection of the plastic, push button 20 establishes the parameters for the hydraulic ram as it pushes the plastic material into the mold, push button 24 accesses a data-gathering screen for the provision of information such as which factory worker is working with the system, timing and security clearances (for example, there may be different levels of security allowing various factory workers to access various levels of the system), push button 26 allows for the operator to request certain data upon the occurrence of certain events, push button 28 accesses real time profiles of process variables within the plastic mold injection system, push button 30 access SPC information (Statistical Process ~ g~
Control). The SPC information screen displays statistical analysis of the process, distribution curves, and trend charts, etc.
Push button 32 accesses a screen which allows for the placement of tolerances on the various processes within a plastic mold injection system, push button 34 accesses a screen wherein an operator can provide information relating to a machine breakdown and optionally track the length of time of the breakdown, push button 36 is the alarm push button which allows the operator to access a screen which provides information relating to a machine breakdown, and push button 38 allows the factory worker operator to access various types of status information for troubleshooting purposes.
Referring now to Figure 2, the screen accessed by injection push button 20 of Figure 1 is shown. In Figure 2, various control device objects are represented which establish the parameters for the injection of plastic into a mold. By adjusting these objects, the injection process parameters of the equipment are changed or controlled. These control device objects resemble various mechanical devices on control panels. Additionally in Figure 2, a bar graph object 43 graphically displays the various parameters of the injection process such as would be seen on a typical control panel. Figure 2 shows various calibrated scales 40, 42, and 46 which represent respectively the speed at which the injection ram moves between various positions, the position of the ram at the various steps of the injection cycle, and the pressure with which the injection ram is operating. The objects shown in 2 ~
Figure 2 are very similar to what a factory worker would see on a conventional control panel and, consequently, the worker is more familiar and at ease with a representation such as Figure 2 than with a typical computer prompt seen in most process control systems.
The scales 40, 42, and 46 increase or decrease the parameter's value by the operator touching the slider buttons 40A, 42A, and 46A and then moving the operator's finger along the calibrations included in each scale. The control system causes the slider button to move along with the operator's finger and remain where the operator's last movement occurred. When the operator has correctly changed a parameter (speed, position, or pressure), the operator presses the "yes" button 45. This changes the prior status of the parameter to the new value.
Upon activating the "yes" button 45, an output control signal is sent to the equipment and the information logged into the system is reflected by a proportional change in the bar graph 43.
For example, if the pressure slide 46A is increased, line 48 of bar graph 43 moves in an upward direction to indicate pressure throughout the injection process. If the position slider 42A for step 4 i5 altered, the width of the fourth bar from the left 44 in bar graph 43 is altered accordingly. Finally, if the speed is changed by movement of slider 40A and a particular bar 44 of graph 43 is selected, the height of that bar 44 is altered. Particular bars 44 may be selected for adjustment by touching the bar desired or, for narrow bars, via cursors 49 also seen in the bottom of Figure 2. Fine tuning of the desired increase or decrease the sliders is possible via push buttons 47 seen in the lower portion of Figure 2.
The buttons on the far right-hand side of Figure 2 allow the operator to access other screens relating to the injection mold process. For example, push button 52 accesses a screen shown in Figure 3 which controls how long and under what pressure the plastic material is held until it freezes. Once again calibrated scales 52 and 54 are shown. Additionally, a bar graph 58 indicating the time, speed, and pressure of the hold pattern can also be seen at the center of Figure 3. The scales and bar graphs of Figure 3 may be manipulated in the same manner as the scales and bar graphs of Figure 2. A new object is also seen in Figure 3.
This object is the dial timer 60 showing the overall hold time of the plastic in the mold. The timer may be altered by touching and use of push buttons 47 as with Figure 2. Note the resemblance of the graphic dial indicator to an actual dial indicator on a conventional control panel. This similarity is achieved through details such as thumbwheels 61 seen to the right-hand side of each digit. In this instance, the thumbwheels are not touch targets (i.e., they cannot be used to alter the digits).
Referring now to Figures 1 and 4, the temperature push button 16 of Figure 1 accesses a screen shown in Figure 4 indicating the various temperatures at various points within the plastic mold injection system. The four objects 58 display various temperature information including actual temperature of the zone in the boxes 55 below thermometers 57. Arrows 62, 63, and 64 indicate the maximum, set and minimum possible temperatures for each zone on the thermometers 57. The maximum, set and minimum temperatures are set by touching rectangles 56 within area 58 for each area. A temperature set screen is then accessed (see discussion regarding Figure 5). Buttons 62A, 63A, 64A, and 65 are view-only buttons for the individual zones. As with the previous screens, the screen of Figure 4 closely resembles a mechanical control panel with which a typical worker is familiar.
Thus, operator interaction with the contro] system is facilitated.
The temperatures of Figure 4 are changed in the following manner. Referring now to Figure 5, this screen relates to the barrel temperature and is accessed through the screen shown in figure 4 by touching rectangles 56 above thermometers 57 in the area 58 labeled "BARREL TEMPERATURES 1-4". The other areas 58 are accessed in a similar manner. To adjust the temperature for a particular zone, the operator merely touches one of the buttons 68 for each zone. A slider device 70 then appears before the thermometer 65. The operator touches the slider and moves his finger until the slider is at the desired value. As in the previous figures, the temperature may be fine-tuned via incremental and decremental push buttons 47 in the lower part of the screen. Once an acceptable change has been made, the changes are logged into the system via the "yes" button push button 45 also in the lower portion of Figure 5 and an output temperature control signal is sent to the equipment. The selected button 68 and the thermometer arrow 69 then display the new value.
2 ~ 5 ~
The thermometer objects 65 of Figure 5 are structured like thermometers 57 of Figure 4 so that the interior area of the thermometer is filled with color or shaded to the level representing the actual temperature in each zone. The exact temperature reading is then indicated in the window 66 dir~ctly beneath each thermometer as in Figure 4. The maximum, minimum, set, and preheat temperatures are shown to the side of each thermometer 65 in windows 68. Arrows 69 indicate the point on the thermometer for each of these particular temperatures.
Also shown in Figure 5 are objects 67 representing toggle switches. The toggle switches are moved from one position to another by touching the center area of the toggle switch 70. For example, with the toggle switch 67 of zone 1, to move the toggle switch to the preheat position, one touch is required and to move the toggle switch to the proheat position two touches are necessary. The proheat temperature is the production heat or set value as seen in Figures 4 and 5. While actual control panel toggle switches are operated by a touching and turning motion and the graphic toggle switches of the instant invention are operated by a touching motion only, Applicants have found that the operations are still so similar so as not to cause operator confusion. In the instant example of a plastic mold injection system, toggle switches 67 are used in Figure 5 to raise the temperature in a particular zone from the preheat status once proheat is selected, thereby allowing production to begin in that zone or to raise the temperature from an off condition to a preheat condition.
Referring now to Figure 6, this screen is accessed through the main menu of Figure 1 via a push button 14. Figure 6 shows the screen for the setup of the ejector which displaces the molded part from the mold after the setting of the part. A number of different objects are shown in Figure 6. For example, toggle switch 72 allows for the turning on and off of the ejector setup portion of the control system. Additionally, calibrated scales 74 and 84 define the position of the mold. When the mold travels to that position, ejection of the part starts. Ejection occurs either by a mechanical or hydraulic system (related to scale 74) or by an air blow system (related to scale 84). Digital timers 76 and 80 show the elapsed time for the ejector return delay and air blow time, respectively. Digital counter 78 counts the number of times the ejector is activated. Once again, the digital timers and counter show graphic representations of some thumbwheels 77, 79, and 81 to the right of each digit in order to facilitate the factory wor~er's interaction with the system. Additionally, another toggle switch 82 is shown in the lower left-hand portion of Figure 6.
The toggle switches are operated as indicated with respect to Figure 5 in that the operator need only touch the circular switch area to move it from one position to the other.
The two calibrated scales 74 and 84 may have their value changed by touching the slider buttons 74A and 84A and dragging the finger to the right or left to increase or decrease the value as one would do with a mechanical slider on an actual control panel. The dial timers and counter 76, 78, and ~o may be adjusted by pressing the area of the timers and then using the incremental and decremental push buttons 47 to change the time. Once any such changes have been logged into the system via the "yes" button 45, an output control signal is sent to the equipment. Additionally, the screen of Figure 6 shows the actual lapsed time for each parameter of the ejector program in windows 85, 86, and 87.
Referring now to Figure 7, another type object 89 is shown. This object represents an LED-type readout from a control panel. Once again, such an object facilitates the factory worker's use of computerized process control systems. Figure 7 is accessed via the main menu of Figure 1 through maintenance button 38.
Figure 7 may represent the actual condition of digital or analog inputs or outputs of the plastic mold injection system and is used for troubleshooting the system. In this example of Figure 7, digital inputs are represented. For example, if the system breaks down or is operating improperly, the factory worker can access Figure 7 and check the status of various inputs to the system. The status of the various parameters such as mold closing 90, mold opening 91, and carriage forward 92 are indicated via LED-resembling objects 90A, 91A, and 92A. In this embodiment, if the specific input is sensed by the system, the objects representing the LEDs are colored or shaded, and if they are not, the objects' 2'~
interior is left blank. Thus, the factory worker recognizes whether the breakdown is a result of a faulty input.
Referring now to Figure 8, other objects bearing resemblance to a mechanical control panel are shown These objects are dial gauges 100, 102, and 104 representing, respectively, clamp pressure, clamp speed, and clamp time. Figure 8 is accessed via the main menu of Figure 1 by pressing push button 12 resulting in the appearance of the screen for setting up the opening of the clamp which then accesses a clamp screen having a push button indicating actual value. When the operator accesses the actual value push button by touching it, the screen of Figure 8 is brought up. Figure 8 shows, via dial gauges 100, 102, and 104, the actual status of certain aspects of the plastic mold injection system.
As with a typical dial gauges found on mechanical control panels, the face of the dial gauge indicates the value for that particular gauge. Consequently, the factory worker operator is further familiarized with the process control system. The calibrated scale object 105 of Figure 8 shows the actual position of the clamp via a horizontally moving needle indicator 105A.
Referring now to Figure 9, an oscilloscope-like object 106 is shown. This screen is accessed from the main menu of Figure 1 via push button 28. Four graph profiles 107, 108, 109, and 110 are seen representing, respectively, hydraulic pressures, screw speed, cavity pressure, and the screw position. The profile graphs relate to the actual value sampled at fast sample rates. The limits of the graph may be altered by touching and sliding buttons 2 ~ ~ ~ ~ 5 7 113 and 114. Button 113 adjusts the y or unit value and button 114 adjusts the time base. The cross hairs 112 shown in the middle of the oscilloscope can be used for displaying the actual value of the profile where it intersects the graph and may be adjusted by 5 touching slider button 115 and sliding the button to the desired point.
Another type object resembling mechanical control panels is shown in Figure 10. This object 125 represents a text list.
The screen of Figure 10 is accessed from the main menu's alarm push 10 button 36. The factory worker operator can scroll through the text list by touching the incremental and decremental buttons 120 in the lower portion of the screen and thereby highlighting each text listing as the operator scrolls through the list. Additionally, the operator can clear alarms by highlighting the alarm description 122 with push buttons 120 or by touching the highlighted text portion 123 and moving the highlighted bar to the desired text portion, and pressing the "clear this alarm button" 124.
Referring more specifically now to Figure 11, a screen for providing information to the process control system for 20 instructing the system where to log data is shown. This screen is accessed via the main menu of Figure 1 through push button 26.
Once again, toggle switches 130 and 132 are shown, as well as slider 134, which resemble actual three-dimensional objects from a mechanical control panel. In order to instruct the system where 25 to log data, the operator first highlights the title of the screen containing the information desired to be moved in the "screens to ~ ~3 ~ 7 log" area 136. The titles are highlighted by scrolling through the list using cursors 49 and pushing "yes" button 45 when the cursor highlights the correct titles. An asterisk 131 is then placed beside the chosen title. Once the particular screen is selected, the logging destination 138 is selected by touching the push button next to the particular location 140, 142, or 146 representing, respectively, the host computer, a printer, or a floppy disk. The logging system is turned on via the toggle switch 130 by pressing the toggle area.
10Referring now to Figure 12, there is shown a block diagram of the internal circuitry of the system of the present invention. The internal circuitry of the system comprises, among other conventional items, a graphics module 150 containing a graphic CPU 151, video controller 152, display memory 153, picture 15and object memory 154 (which is preferably a flash-type memory), CPU memory 155, printer port 156, universal asynchronous receiver transmitter (UART) 157, and small computer system interface controller 158, all connected in a conventional manner as is known to those of skill in the art as shown in Figure 12.
20The graphics module 150 is linked to a display station 160 via video graphics array output 162. The display station typically contains both a hard disk drive and floppy drive 164 and 166, respectively. The screen 168 of the display station is touch sensitive and the touch x-y decoded signals are connected to the 25universal asynchronous receiver transmitter 157 via bus 170. The 2~.3~n57 graphics module 150 and display station 160 are connected to the input/output processor of the system via VME bus 175.
The I/0 processor 180 is conventional in nature and comprises the following conventional elements, among other items, 5such as shared memory 181, a microcontroller 182, digital signal processor 183, processor 184, which are connected via local bus 185 to the local memory 186 and to A to D and D to A convertors 187 and 188, respectively. A to D and D to A convertors 187 and 188 are connected to the input/output signal conditioning devices 190 via 10multiplexers 191 and 192, as shown in Figure 12. The I/0 signal conditioning devices 190 are contained within the I/0 interface 200 generally seen in Figure 13. Output signals 204 resulting from the control system's programmed status or the operator's changes are transmitted to the equipment being controlled 15Referring now to Figure 13, a diagram of the types of input signals that may be interfaced to the I/0 system 180 of Figure 12. These devices represent typical I/0 signals and, as one skilled in the art will recognize, are not limited to these devices alone. Here, the I/0 interface 200 is shown receiving various 20typss of information 202 from the plastic mold injection system.
The I/0 interface includes the I/0 signal conditioning 190 of Figure 12. As is known to one of skill in art, smart sensors which can process the input data 202 digitally via a serial communication link such as the RS-232 may also be used for the input/output 25interface. The smart sensors process the analog sensor information, scale it in appropriate engineering limits, and transmit the data automatically to the I/O system 180. The transmission occurs in simple ASCII escape code format which is easily read by the I/O processor.
The output signals 204 of the instant invention control such items as, for example, motors, solenoids, and valves of the system being controlled In order to better understand the operation of the system of the present invention, the flow chart shown in Figure 14 will now be discussed. In Figure 14, there is shown a flow chart of a typical touch sensitive display screen operation. For illustrative purposes, a flow chart of the operation of one of the slider devices shown in the previous figures is described, although the operation and manipulation of other types of objects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from this description.
Referring now more particularly to Figure 14, the operation of the system starts at the main menu 300 (See Figure l).
At box 301, the circuits of the system wait until the touch sensitive screen detects that the surface of the screen has been touched. When the screen is touched, box 301 translates the touch response signals from the touch sensitive layer into x-y coordinates on the display surface of the display screen. If an x-y position is detected, the system proceeds depending upon the push button corresponding to the x-y position pressed in the main menu of Figure 1. In this example, the injection profile push button 20 of Figure 1 has be~n selected. Once the system has determined that the injection profile button has been selected, the 2~3~57 system displays the injection profile screen shown in Figure 2 as indicated by box 302. Once again, the circuits of the system wait until the touch sensitive screen of Figure 2 is touched. When the screen of Figure 2 is touched, box 303 translates the touch response signals from the touch sensitive layer into x-y coordinates on the display surface. Once a decoded x-y position is obtained, the program proceeds to box 304 where it is determined which object of screen 2 has been selected.
If a slider object representing speed has been selected, the program proceeds to box 305 and highlights the speed slider shown in Figure 2. The circuits of the system then wait to perceive movement of the highlighted speed slider box 306. If no vertical movement is detected, the system checks to see if horizontal movement is detected box 307. If no horizontal movement is detected, the system returns to box 302 because no movement occurs and the injection screen remains as is shown in Figure 2.
If, however, a horizontal movement is detected, the system proceeds to box 308 and decodes the x coordinate of the horizontal movement box 308. The system detects whether the x coordinate is increasing or decreasing box 309. If the x coordinate is not increasing, the system then checks in box 310 whether or not the x coordinate is decreasing. If the x coordinate is neither increasing nor decreasing, the system returns to box 302 and the injection display setup and no change is made. If, however, the x coordinate decreases or increases, the circuits of 2~5~
the system move the slider value horizontally in the direction of the increase or decrease boxes 311 and 312.
Returning to the detection of vertical movement in box 306, if movement is detected, the y coordinate of the movement is decoded box 313. The system then checks to see whether the y coordinate is increasing box 314. If the y coordinate does not increase, a check is then made in box 315 for a decrease in the y coordinate. If the y coordinate is neither increasing nor decreasing, once again the system returns to box 302 and merely displays the injection setup of Figure 2. If, however, an increase or decrease in the y coordinate is detected, the circuits of the system move the slider value vertically to indicate either the desired increase or decrease in the speed as seen boxes 316 and 317.
Once the movement is detected and the slider value is changed accordingly, the system continues to check whether or not the x-y coordinates are still changing in box 318. If the x-y coordinates are still changing, the system returns to either box 309 for increase in an x coordinate or box 314 for increase in the y coordinate. If the x or y coordinate is no longer changing, the movement of the slider is discontinued box 319. Then the system waits as seen in box 320 for the acceptance of the new slider value. The system accepts the new slider value if the operator presses the "yes" object on Figure 2 in box 321. If the "no"
object of Figure 2 is pressed, the slider value remains at its previous state and no change is made box 322.
In summary, a process control system is provided wherein interaction between factory worker operators and the process control system computer software is facilitated by the use of graphic representations in the computer software of familiar aspects of mechanical three-dimensional control panels. Since factory workers are familiar with and comfortable with such control panels, the difficulties of adapting an unskilled factory worker to new technology are obviated.
It will therefore be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those herein described, as well as many variations, modifications and equivalent arrangements will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing description thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention. Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended or to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise to exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications and equivalent arrangements, the present invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.
Claims (17)
1. A control system by which an operator controls equipment by selectively changing the operation condition thereof and which facilitates interaction between the control system and the operator, said control system comprising:
a) means for receiving an input signal from said equipment which is a function of at least one said operation condition thereof;
b) a touch sensitive display for representing the control system to the operator;
c) at least one object represented on said touch sensitive display for displaying said one operating condition in response to receipt of said input signal, said object being a graphic representation of a mechanical control device used on control panels;
d) means for manipulating said object to cause a change in the value thereof on said display to indicate a change in said operation condition: and e) means for generating an output signal to be transmitted to said equipment that is a function of the change in value of said object caused by said manipulating means.
a) means for receiving an input signal from said equipment which is a function of at least one said operation condition thereof;
b) a touch sensitive display for representing the control system to the operator;
c) at least one object represented on said touch sensitive display for displaying said one operating condition in response to receipt of said input signal, said object being a graphic representation of a mechanical control device used on control panels;
d) means for manipulating said object to cause a change in the value thereof on said display to indicate a change in said operation condition: and e) means for generating an output signal to be transmitted to said equipment that is a function of the change in value of said object caused by said manipulating means.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein said means for manipulating further comprises:
tha manipulation of said object in a similar manner as the operator would manipulate said mechanical control device to effect a change in said operation condition.
tha manipulation of said object in a similar manner as the operator would manipulate said mechanical control device to effect a change in said operation condition.
3. A control system method which allows an operator to control equipment by selectively changing the operation conditions thereof and for facilitating interaction between a control system and the operator of the system comprising steps of:
a) providing a touch sensitive display for representing the control system to the operator and for receiving input signals from said equipment, where said signal is a function of at least one operating condition thereof;
b) supplying at least one object on said touch sensitive display for displaying said at least one operating condition, said object being a graphic representation resembling mechanical devices used on control panels: and c) manipulating said at least one object by touching said display to effect a response in the operating condition of the equipment.
a) providing a touch sensitive display for representing the control system to the operator and for receiving input signals from said equipment, where said signal is a function of at least one operating condition thereof;
b) supplying at least one object on said touch sensitive display for displaying said at least one operating condition, said object being a graphic representation resembling mechanical devices used on control panels: and c) manipulating said at least one object by touching said display to effect a response in the operating condition of the equipment.
4. The method of claim 3 wherein said manipulating step further comprises:
touching said display at the point where said object appears and then moving said touching along said display to accomplish manipulation of said object.
touching said display at the point where said object appears and then moving said touching along said display to accomplish manipulation of said object.
5. The method of claim 3 wherein said manipulating step further comprises the step of manipulating said object by touching said display in a similar manner as the operator would manipulate said mechanical devices.
6. A control system by which an operator controls equipment by selectively changing the operation condition thereof and which facilitates interaction between the control system and the operator, said control system comprising:
a) a touch sensitive display for representing said control system to the operator and for providing control information to the operator and for accepting information when said display is touched by the operator in particular areas of said display.
b) at least one object displayed on said touch sensitive display for representing said operating conditions, said at least one object being a graphic representation of a mechanical control device used on control panels;
c) a digital computer linked to said touch sensitive display for accepting and processing said information and for manipulating said objects in response thereto; and d) means for adjusting the system being controlled in response to the touching of said at least one object on said touch sensitive display.
a) a touch sensitive display for representing said control system to the operator and for providing control information to the operator and for accepting information when said display is touched by the operator in particular areas of said display.
b) at least one object displayed on said touch sensitive display for representing said operating conditions, said at least one object being a graphic representation of a mechanical control device used on control panels;
c) a digital computer linked to said touch sensitive display for accepting and processing said information and for manipulating said objects in response thereto; and d) means for adjusting the system being controlled in response to the touching of said at least one object on said touch sensitive display.
7. The system of claim 6 wherein said touching comprises manipulation of said at least one object in a similar manner as the operator would manipulate said mechanical device.
8. The system of claim 6 wherein said at least one object comprises a calibrated scale and a sliding portion where said sliding portion moves along said calibrated scale upon the operator's touching of said sliding portion and the moving of said touching along said scale to effect a change in the scale's value.
9. A control system method by which an operator controls equipment by selectively changing the operation condition thereof and which facilitates interaction between the control system and the operator, said control system comprising:
a) displaying at least one object which is a graphic representation of a mechanical device used on a control panel and which represents an operating condition of the equipment on a touch sensitive display;
b) accepting and processing in a digital computer information provided to said display via the touching of said display by the operator;
c) altering the appearance of said at least one object in response to said touching of said at least one object resembling control devices; and d) adjusting the operating condition of the equipment represented by said at least one object in response to said touching of said at least one object.
a) displaying at least one object which is a graphic representation of a mechanical device used on a control panel and which represents an operating condition of the equipment on a touch sensitive display;
b) accepting and processing in a digital computer information provided to said display via the touching of said display by the operator;
c) altering the appearance of said at least one object in response to said touching of said at least one object resembling control devices; and d) adjusting the operating condition of the equipment represented by said at least one object in response to said touching of said at least one object.
10. The method of claim 8 wherein said accepting step further comprises the step of:
accepting and processing in a digital computer information provided to said display via the touching of said display by the operator in a similar manner as the operator would manipulate said mechanical devices.
accepting and processing in a digital computer information provided to said display via the touching of said display by the operator in a similar manner as the operator would manipulate said mechanical devices.
11. A control system by which an operator controls equipment by selectively changing the operation condition thereof and which facilitates interaction between the control system and the operator, said control system comprising:
a) a touch sensitive display for representing the control system to the operator;
b) at least one first type object represented on said touch sensitive display for displaying at least one parameter of an operating condition of the equipment, said object being a graphic representation of a mechanical control device used on control panels and displaying potential values of said at least one parameter;
c) means for manipulating said object to indicate a desired change in the value of said at least one parameter; and d) means for generating an output signal to be transmitted to said equipment that is a function of said indicated desired change in the value of said at least one parameter caused by said manipulating means.
a) a touch sensitive display for representing the control system to the operator;
b) at least one first type object represented on said touch sensitive display for displaying at least one parameter of an operating condition of the equipment, said object being a graphic representation of a mechanical control device used on control panels and displaying potential values of said at least one parameter;
c) means for manipulating said object to indicate a desired change in the value of said at least one parameter; and d) means for generating an output signal to be transmitted to said equipment that is a function of said indicated desired change in the value of said at least one parameter caused by said manipulating means.
12. The system of claim 11 further comprising:
means for receiving an input signal from said equipment which is a function of said operating condition.
means for receiving an input signal from said equipment which is a function of said operating condition.
13. The system of claim 12 wherein said input signal which is a function of said operation condition is represented by at least one second type object on said touch sensitive display.
14. A control system by which an operator controls equipment by selectively changing the operation condition thereof and which facilitates interaction between the control system and the operator, said control system comprising:
a) means for receiving an input signal from said equipment which is a function of at least one parameter of the operating condition thereof;
b) a touch sensitive display for representing the control system to the operator;
c) at least one first type object represented on said touch sensitive display for displaying potential values of said at least one parameter, said object being a graphic representation of a mechanical control device used on control panels;
d) means for manipulating said object to indicate a desired change in the value of said at least one parameter; and e) means for generating an output signal to be transmitted to said equipment that is a function of the desired change in value of said object caused by said manipulating means.
a) means for receiving an input signal from said equipment which is a function of at least one parameter of the operating condition thereof;
b) a touch sensitive display for representing the control system to the operator;
c) at least one first type object represented on said touch sensitive display for displaying potential values of said at least one parameter, said object being a graphic representation of a mechanical control device used on control panels;
d) means for manipulating said object to indicate a desired change in the value of said at least one parameter; and e) means for generating an output signal to be transmitted to said equipment that is a function of the desired change in value of said object caused by said manipulating means.
15. The system of claim 14 further wherein said input signal which is a function of said operation condition is represented by at least one second type object on said touch sensitive display.
16. A control system by which an operator controls equipment by selectively changing the operation condition thereof and which facilitates interaction between the control system and the operator, said control system comprising:
a) a touch sensitive display for representing the control system to the operator;
b) means for displaying on said touch sensitive display a graphic representation of a mechanical control device which includes a calibrated scale and a movable element for movement along said calibrated scale;
c) means for causing said movable element to be moved along said calibrated scale in direct response to the operator movably touching said touch sensitive display at the point where said movable member is displayed; and d) means for generating an output signal to be transmitted to said equipment that is a function of the change in value of said movable member being moved along said calibrated scale.
a) a touch sensitive display for representing the control system to the operator;
b) means for displaying on said touch sensitive display a graphic representation of a mechanical control device which includes a calibrated scale and a movable element for movement along said calibrated scale;
c) means for causing said movable element to be moved along said calibrated scale in direct response to the operator movably touching said touch sensitive display at the point where said movable member is displayed; and d) means for generating an output signal to be transmitted to said equipment that is a function of the change in value of said movable member being moved along said calibrated scale.
17. A method utilizing a control system for controlling equipment by selectively changing an operating condition thereof and which facilitates interaction between the control system and the operator, said method comprising the steps of:
a) providing a touch sensitive display for representing the control system to the operator, b) creating a display on said touch sensitive display which incudes a graphic representation of a mechanical control device which includes a calibrated scale and a movable element for movement along said calibrated scale;
c) touching said touch sensitive display at the point where said movable element is displayed and then moving said touching along the touch sensitive display and along said calibrated scale;
d) causing said movable element to be moved along said calibrated scale in direct response to said moving; and e) causing an output signal to be transmitted to said equipment that is a function of the changes in value of said movable member being moved along said calibrated scale.
a) providing a touch sensitive display for representing the control system to the operator, b) creating a display on said touch sensitive display which incudes a graphic representation of a mechanical control device which includes a calibrated scale and a movable element for movement along said calibrated scale;
c) touching said touch sensitive display at the point where said movable element is displayed and then moving said touching along the touch sensitive display and along said calibrated scale;
d) causing said movable element to be moved along said calibrated scale in direct response to said moving; and e) causing an output signal to be transmitted to said equipment that is a function of the changes in value of said movable member being moved along said calibrated scale.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US71555391A | 1991-06-14 | 1991-06-14 | |
| US715,553 | 1991-06-14 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2050957A1 true CA2050957A1 (en) | 1992-12-15 |
Family
ID=24874524
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2050957 Abandoned CA2050957A1 (en) | 1991-06-14 | 1991-09-09 | Control system |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2050957A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE9110348U1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
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| US7918661B2 (en) | 2006-09-19 | 2011-04-05 | Kautex Maschinenbau Gmbh | Controller for a machine with a number of functions units, in particular controller for a blow-molding machine |
| US8195413B2 (en) | 2006-05-22 | 2012-06-05 | Rohde & Schwarz Gmbh & Co. Kg | Measuring device for a preview display of several time-variable electrical signals |
| EP3144759A1 (en) * | 2015-09-18 | 2017-03-22 | Yokogawa Electric Corporation | Information processing device and displaying method |
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| DE4202041A1 (en) * | 1992-01-25 | 1993-07-29 | Sel Alcatel Ag | Simplification of servicing telecommunication end device - using key to selectively trigger function or display function depending on actuation of key |
| ES2123535T3 (en) * | 1992-01-25 | 1999-01-16 | Alsthom Cge Alcatel | PROCEDURE TO FACILITATE THE MANAGEMENT OF TERMINAL DEVICES IN TELECOMMUNICATION FACILITIES. |
| DE4231766A1 (en) * | 1992-09-23 | 1994-03-24 | Licentia Gmbh | Method for entering and displaying the setting parameters of a device for coating objects |
| DE9218690U1 (en) * | 1992-11-12 | 1995-03-16 | Kaltenbach & Voigt Gmbh & Co, 88400 Biberach | Operating part for a device for medical treatment of the human or animal body |
| EP0640905A1 (en) * | 1993-08-17 | 1995-03-01 | Emhart Glass Machinery Investments Inc. | Process control console for machine for manufacturing glass articles |
| US5581687A (en) * | 1994-11-10 | 1996-12-03 | Baxter International Inc. | Interactive control systems for medical processing devices |
| DE19753742A1 (en) * | 1997-12-04 | 1999-06-10 | Grundig Ag | Touch-sensitive screen for input of commands to electronic device in motor vehicle |
| DE19758311A1 (en) * | 1997-12-31 | 1999-07-01 | Vargas Jorge Luis Dr Sanchez | Computer system for thermo chemical problem solving |
| US6901560B1 (en) * | 1999-07-01 | 2005-05-31 | Honeywell Inc. | Process variable generalized graphical device display and methods regarding same |
| US6952808B1 (en) | 1999-07-01 | 2005-10-04 | Honeywell Inc. | Process variable gauge interface and methods regarding same |
| FR2803050B1 (en) * | 1999-12-22 | 2003-08-15 | Legrand Sa | METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A ROLLER SHUTTER AND DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT SUCH A METHOD |
| FR2803049B1 (en) | 1999-12-22 | 2003-08-15 | Legrand Sa | DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING AN APPARATUS SUITABLE FOR TAKING A SELECTED LEVEL AMONG A RANGE OF LEVELS, METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A ROLLING SHUTTER USING SUCH A DEVICE AND USER MODULE FOR SUCH A DEVICE |
| DE10012508A1 (en) * | 2000-03-15 | 2001-09-20 | Luxmate Controls Gmbh Dornbirn | Actuator control system of electrical devices, has central control unit which tunes parameter of several actuators, displayed on touch screen |
| FR2811162B1 (en) * | 2000-06-29 | 2006-08-18 | Somfy | DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING A MOTOR WITH TWO DIRECTION OF ROTATION |
| DE10032610C2 (en) * | 2000-07-07 | 2003-05-15 | Fischer W Mueller Blasformtech | Process for the manufacture of plastic blow molded articles |
| FR2814552B1 (en) * | 2000-09-28 | 2003-01-24 | Renault Agriculture | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING TOOLS AND CORRESPONDING EQUIPMENT |
| DE10108962A1 (en) | 2001-02-20 | 2002-09-12 | Pilz Gmbh & Co | Method and device for programming a safety controller |
| DE60205437T2 (en) | 2001-09-11 | 2006-05-24 | Trw Automotive Electronics & Components Gmbh & Co. Kg | Adjustment system of an automotive air conditioning system |
| AT5752U1 (en) * | 2001-10-18 | 2002-11-25 | Engel Gmbh Maschbau | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING AN INJECTION MOLDING MACHINE |
| FR2840420B1 (en) * | 2002-05-31 | 2005-05-27 | Sepro Robotique | DEVICE AND PROGRAM-CONTROL PRODUCT, IN PARTICULAR MANIPULATORS OR ROBOTS |
| DE10334153A1 (en) * | 2003-07-26 | 2005-02-24 | Karl Hehl | Method and device for interactively controlling a machine |
| WO2008149742A1 (en) * | 2007-05-31 | 2008-12-11 | Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd. | Display device for injection molding apparatus |
| DE102016119853A1 (en) | 2016-10-18 | 2018-04-19 | Arburg Gmbh + Co Kg | Interactive control of a machine with feedback of a setting parameter |
-
1991
- 1991-08-22 DE DE9110348U patent/DE9110348U1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1991-09-09 CA CA 2050957 patent/CA2050957A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US8195413B2 (en) | 2006-05-22 | 2012-06-05 | Rohde & Schwarz Gmbh & Co. Kg | Measuring device for a preview display of several time-variable electrical signals |
| US7918661B2 (en) | 2006-09-19 | 2011-04-05 | Kautex Maschinenbau Gmbh | Controller for a machine with a number of functions units, in particular controller for a blow-molding machine |
| EP3144759A1 (en) * | 2015-09-18 | 2017-03-22 | Yokogawa Electric Corporation | Information processing device and displaying method |
| US10620823B2 (en) | 2015-09-18 | 2020-04-14 | Yokogawa Electric Corporation | Information processing device and displaying method for switching between faceplates for controlling field devices |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| DE9110348U1 (en) | 1991-11-21 |
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