JP2010055652A - Program development support device for safety controller - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a program development support device for safety controller capable of preventing a programming error such as arranging a function block in an inappropriate position, and in an inappropriate order, when such a programming error arises, to easily find the fact, and also to facilitate parameter verification of an output condition function block in a program after completion. <P>SOLUTION: The program development support device is configured such that arrangement of the function block in a programming field is performed according to guidance by a template for arranging the functional block in which block arrangeable positions are vertically defined, and one end side of the column direction is defined as the input terminal side, and the other end side of the column direction is defined as the output terminal side, furthermore, setting of an input signal which is a unique parameter to be required when the output condition function block is arranged to a corresponding column is executed via an operation for selecting a desired input signal from an input signal list displayed on a menu. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  In the present invention, a control program for the safety controller is automatically generated through a series of user operations for describing a logic circuit diagram corresponding to a desired control specification in a programming field on the screen of the image display. The present invention relates to a program development support device for a safety controller.

  In addition to logic operation functions and input / output control functions similar to general programmable controllers (PLCs), the safety controller has a built-in safety self-diagnosis function, which provides a high level of safety and reliability in its control. This function is provided and has a function (fail-safe function) for forcibly performing safe control so that self-control does not lead to danger when an abnormality is detected from the self-diagnosis result.

  More specifically, the term “safety” as used herein means that standardized safety standards are included. Safety standards include, for example, IEC61508 and EN standards. IEC 61508 (International Electrotechnical Commission on Functional Safety of Programmable Electronic Systems) defines the establishment of dangerous failures per hour (Probability of Failure per Hour), which establishes the SIL level (Safety Integrity Level). ) Is classified into 4 levels. Further, EN standards require that the risk of a machine be evaluated and that risk reduction measures be taken, and EN 954-1 defines the safety categories. The safety controller, safety I / O terminal, and the like referred to in this specification correspond to any of these safety standards.

  FIG. 26 shows a logic circuit diagram display example in a conventional program development support apparatus (safety network controller manufactured by OMRON Corporation, Japan) for creating a control program for a safety controller.

  This program development support device (first conventional example) has one type of function block (FB81 to FB85) selected from a plurality of types of function blocks prepared in advance in the programming field 801 on the screen of the image display. ) Are placed in sequence, and a specific parameter (not shown) necessary for each function block is set (in this example, the parameter is automatically set by dragging with the mouse for wiring drawing). The control program for the safety controller is automatically generated through a series of user operations for completing a logic circuit diagram corresponding to a desired control specification.

  In the figure, FB81 is a function block for safety emergency stop switch / application, FB82 is a function block for safety light curtain application, FB83 is a function block for set / reset application, and FB84 is for AND operation / application. FB85 is a function block for an external output device monitoring application. In the figure, T811 and T812 are a pair of input terminal displays to which two output signals of the safety emergency stop switch are input, and T821 and T822 are a pair of input terminals to which two output signals of the safety light curtain are input. Display, T83 is an input terminal display to which an output signal of the reset switch is input, and T84 is an input terminal display to which an external output device monitoring signal is input.

  Then, the circuit diagram data (not shown) created corresponding to the logic circuit drawn on the programming field 801 by the user is subjected to a predetermined compiling process so that the safety controller can directly decode and execute the setting. Converted to a file. The execution setting file obtained in this way is installed to the target safety controller via communication or via a portable recording medium.

  According to the first conventional example described above, the place where function blocks and terminal displays (hereinafter referred to as circuit elements) are not fixed on the programming field 801. Therefore, a desired circuit element is placed on the programming field 801. There is an advantage that the circuit element can be arranged at an arbitrary position and the degree of freedom of arrangement of circuit elements is high. On the other hand, in order to accommodate all of the desired circuit elements within the limited size programming field 801 and to arrange (lay out) the circuit elements in an easy-to-understand manner, There is a drawback that sense or suitability in design is required, and that those who are inferior in sense or suitability are inconvenient to use (see Non-Patent Document 1).

  A logic circuit diagram display example in another conventional program development support apparatus (manufactured by PILZ, Germany) for creating a control program for a safety controller is shown in FIG.

  This program development support device (second conventional example) also has one type of function block (FB91 to FB95) selected from a plurality of types of function blocks prepared in advance in the programming field 901 on the screen of the image display. ) Are placed sequentially and the necessary unique parameters (not shown) are set for each function block (in this example, the parameters are automatically set by dragging the mouse for wiring drawing) A control program for the safety controller is automatically generated through a series of user operations for completing a logic circuit diagram corresponding to a desired control specification.

  In addition, in the second conventional example, the function blocks are arranged in the programming field 901 according to the guidance by the function block arrangement template 900 displayed on the programming field 901. Are defined by defining a plurality of rows (R1, R2, R3...) And a plurality of columns (C1, C2, C3...) With the vertical direction on the screen as a reference direction. One end (left end) of the direction is defined as the input side, and the other end (right end) is defined as the output side, and the row (R1, R2, R3...) And column (C1, C2, C3...) A plurality of block arrangement possible positions (A11 to A33) are defined so as to correspond to the respective intersection positions.

  In the figure, FB91 is a safety emergency stop switch / application function block, FB92 is a safety light curtain / application function block, FB93 is a logical product / application function block, and FB94 is a set / reset application application. FB95 is a function block for an external output device monitoring application. In the figure, T911 and T912 are a pair of input terminal displays to which two output signals of the emergency stop switch are input, and T921 and T922 are a pair of input terminal displays to which two output signals of the safety light curtain are input. , T93 is an input terminal display to which an output signal of the reset switch is input, and T94 is an input terminal display to which an external output device monitoring signal is input.

  Then, the circuit diagram data created corresponding to the logic circuit drawn on the programming field 901 by the user is subjected to a predetermined compiling process as in the first conventional example, and can be directly decoded and executed by the safety controller. Is converted into a simple configuration file. The execution setting file obtained in this way is installed to the target safety controller via communication or via a portable recording medium.

  According to the second conventional example described above, the placement location of the circuit element is predefined on the programming field 901. Therefore, after selecting a desired circuit element, the circuit element can be dragged with a mouse, for example. As long as it is close to a predetermined place, the dragged circuit element is automatically guided to a predetermined place and placed, so it has a design sense and suitability on the layout. Even those who do not can arrange a plurality of selected circuit elements in the programming field 901 in a good manner, and suffer from the layout of the selected circuit elements as in the first conventional example. There is an advantage that there is no (Non-Patent Document 2).

Catalog of OMRON Corporation (published at URL http://www.fa.omron.co.jp/product/32.html) PILZ catalog (URL http://www.pilz.jp/p_saferelay7.htm)

  By the way, in this kind of program development support device, when generating a logic circuit diagram corresponding to a desired safety control specification, not only the signal logic between input and output but also various situations peculiar to the safety controller. With consideration given, the necessary function blocks must be properly placed at the required positions on the logic circuit diagram.

  For example, when an input signal obtained from one or more input terminals indicates a predetermined logical value (danger), an output signal having a predetermined logical value (danger source stop) is transmitted from one or more output terminals. If this is an ordinary controller (PLC, etc.) that is not a safety specification, a functional block for logical operation corresponding to the logic between the input and output between the input and output terminal rows is to be created. It will be enough just to arrange.

  However, when this is a safety controller, the situation is slightly different. In other words, in the case of a controller with safety specifications, even if an input signal indicating some danger is obtained from the input terminal, the input signal is used as an input device (safety emergency stop switch, safety light curtain, safety limit Switches, safety door switches, etc.) may be due to their own failure, etc., so such input signals cannot be immediately captured and used for the necessary logical operations. For this reason, an input function block in which an appropriate failure diagnosis function or the like is incorporated for each input device must be arranged at least in front of a function block for logical operation (for example, an AND function block).

  In addition, even if an input signal indicating some danger is obtained via such an input system function block, the input signal must be informed of the danger and the operator has entered the danger area for adjustment, maintenance, etc. Therefore, there is a case where such an input signal cannot be taken in immediately and used for a necessary logical operation. Therefore, at least before the function block for logical operation, a disabling / function block having a function of disabling the input signal must be arranged when a predetermined condition corresponding to the time of adjustment or maintenance is satisfied. In some cases.

  In addition, when an input signal indicating some danger is obtained via such an input function block and / or invalidation / function block, the output signal is output simultaneously with the return from the danger state to the safety state. If such an input signal cannot be taken in immediately and used for the required logical operation for reasons of safety regulations that the state must not be restored (especially instantaneous operation / instantaneous return, input signal from the contact) In some cases. For this reason, at least before the function block for logical operation, a set / reset function having a set function for holding the dangerous state of the input signal, a reset function for releasing the held dangerous state, and a function for defining the reset condition In some cases, function blocks must be placed.

  In consideration of the possibility of failure in the output device itself, it is not always appropriate to send the output signal of the output condition function block for logical operation to the output device unconditionally. For this reason, an external output device monitoring function block (for example, an EDM function block) in which an appropriate failure diagnosis function or the like is incorporated for each output device must be arranged at least after the output condition function block.

  Furthermore, considering that each output device has its own operation delay time, it may not always be appropriate to send an output signal at the same timing from each of the plurality of output terminals. Therefore, a terminal mode function block having a function of delaying the ON timing and / or the OFF timing of the output signal may need to be arranged at least at the subsequent stage of the output condition function block.

  As described above, in the programming of the safety controller through the logic circuit diagram, the user is required to appropriately arrange the necessary function blocks at necessary positions on the signal path from the input terminal to the output terminal. The This work can only be done properly after fully considering the circumstances specific to the safety controller described above, so it is not easy for beginners unfamiliar with safety controller programming. Programming errors, such as missing positions, or necessary function blocks, but incorrect positions.

  In particular, in the first and second conventional examples described above, there is no strict correlation between the position where each function block is placed on the programming field and the type of function book placed at that position. Since it does not exist, even if any of the function blocks that should be placed is accidentally missing or is placed in an incorrect location, it is immediately detected from the layout of each function block. It is difficult.

  Therefore, in these conventional examples, in order to find such programming mistakes, steady verification work that sequentially traces the signal path from the input terminal to the output terminal, with specific control circumstances in mind Therefore, the complexity of such verification work is one factor that hinders the spread of this type of safety controller.

  The types of function blocks used to program safety controllers are expected to increase with the proliferation of safety controllers, so even in future situations where more types of function blocks will exist There has been a demand for a program development support apparatus for a safety controller that is unlikely to cause programming mistakes and that can easily find out if a programming mistake has occurred.

  In addition, in the above-described first and second conventional examples, the setting of the unique parameter that defines the connection relationship between the function blocks is performed through the drawing operation of the signal line connecting the corresponding function blocks. Therefore, if you try to verify the setting parameters of the output condition function block in the completed program using the logic circuit diagram, the wiring on the completed logic circuit diagram and the safety I / O device correspondence table (Fig. 28) Since there is a complicated operation of collating with the above input / output relationship, there is a problem that it takes time for verification.

  The present invention has been made by paying attention to the above-mentioned problems, and the purpose thereof is to make it difficult to cause programming mistakes such as placing function blocks in the wrong position or placing them in the wrong order. In addition, when a programming error occurs, a safety controller program development support apparatus that can easily detect such a mistake and that also facilitates parameter verification of the output condition function block in the completed program is provided. There is.

  Other objects and operational effects of the present invention will be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the description of the specification.

  The above technical problem can be solved by a program development support apparatus for a safety controller having the following configuration.

  That is, this safety controller program development support device sequentially arranges one type of function block selected from a plurality of types of function blocks prepared in advance in the programming field on the screen of the image display. By setting the necessary unique parameters for each function block, the control program for the safety controller is automatically generated through a series of user operations to complete the logic circuit diagram corresponding to the desired control specifications. It has a basic configuration with a processing unit.

  In addition to the basic configuration described above, the program development support device is arranged such that the arrangement of function blocks in the programming field is displayed on the programming field and corresponds to each crossing position of a row and a column. Thus, the position where the block can be arranged is defined, and one end side in the row direction is defined as an input terminal side, and the other end side is performed according to guidance by a function block arrangement template defined as an output terminal side. ing.

  Further, the program development support apparatus sets the input signal, which is a unique parameter required when the output condition function block, which is one of the function blocks, is arranged in the corresponding column, as the input signal displayed on the menu. It can be performed through an operation of selecting a desired input signal from the list.

  According to the configuration including the processing unit that performs such an operation, the arrangement of the function block in the programming field is displayed on the programming field and corresponds to each crossing position of the row and the column. Since each function block is automatically arranged vertically and horizontally, the user does not have to worry about the layout of the function block.

  In addition, the setting of the input signal, which is a unique parameter required when the output condition function block, which is one of the function blocks, is arranged in the corresponding column, can be set from the input signal list displayed on the menu. Unlike the conventional example where the wiring on the logic circuit diagram had to be followed for verification after the completion of the program, this type of programming is performed because it is executed through an operation for selecting an input signal. By collating the safety input / output device correspondence table normally created in advance with the input signal list displayed on the menu, anyone can easily perform it.

  At this time, the menu display of the input signal list is performed by arranging the input signal names to be set in the menu window opened on the screen of the image display device, and for selection of a desired input signal, If it is performed via the selection confirmation means, the input signal selection operation and the verification work after the completion of the program become easier.

  In addition, by referring to the input device table generated when the input signal data used for the menu display of the input signal list is arranged in the corresponding column of the input system function block which is one of the function blocks. If acquired, the operation of registering the input signal data separately for the menu display becomes unnecessary.

  Needless to say, the input signal list can be displayed in various other modes. For example, if the number of input terminals increases as 16 points, 32 points, and 64 points, the number of input signals to be selected increases corresponding to the number of input terminals. In such a case, These input signals may be divided into several groups and displayed in a menu.

  In addition, when the number of such input points reaches a large number, if the range of the input signal related to the target output condition function block is logically estimated to some extent, the input signal belonging to the highly likely group If an AI function is provided, such as displaying a menu by preferentially or narrowing down to input signals belonging to such a group, the selection operation can be performed efficiently.

  As for the input signal display in the input signal list displayed on the menu, the name and symbol of the target input terminal may be used in addition to the name and symbol indicating the input signal. Although it is a condition that there is a margin, if the general form of the safety input / output device correspondence table to be compared is known, the input that has been set for each output condition function block will be more easily verified. The safety input / output device correspondence table may be displayed graphically by executing the disassembly process based on the signal data and the safety output device data assigned to each output terminal.

  According to the present invention, it is difficult to cause a programming mistake such as placing function blocks in the wrong position or in the wrong order, and when such a programming mistake occurs, it is easily discovered. In addition, it is possible to provide a safety controller program development support device that can easily verify the parameters of the output condition function block in the completed program.

It is a conceptual diagram which shows the safety control system containing a safety controller. It is a block diagram which shows notionally the function of a program development support apparatus. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the electrical hardware constitutions of a program development assistance apparatus. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the electrical hardware constitutions of a safety controller. It is a flowchart (the 1) which shows the software structure of a program development assistance apparatus. It is a flowchart (the 2) which shows the software structure of a program development assistance apparatus. It is a detailed flowchart of a safe output condition setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of safety program template data (input side). It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of safety program template data (output side). It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the logic circuit data (10b) produced by the user. It is explanatory drawing of an input device table. It is explanatory drawing of an output condition setting table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the setting parameter data (control program) downloaded to a safety controller. It is screen explanatory drawing in the initial stage of FB arrangement | positioning in an input side template. It is explanatory drawing of the menu window for FB selection. It is explanatory drawing of the menu window for an input invalidation condition setting. It is explanatory drawing of the menu window for reset condition setting. It is screen explanatory drawing of the input side template by which the input FB, the invalidation condition FB, and the reset FB are arrange | positioned. It is screen explanatory drawing at the beginning of FB arrangement | positioning setting start in an output side template. It is screen explanatory drawing of the various menu windows regarding a welding check. It is explanatory drawing of the menu window for terminal mode setting. It is screen explanatory drawing of the output side template by which the terminal mode FB, the output condition FB, and the welding check FB are arrange | positioned. It is explanatory drawing of the window for an output condition setting. It is explanatory drawing explanatory drawing at the time of completion of FB arrangement | positioning in an input side template. It is explanatory drawing explanatory drawing at the time of FB arrangement | positioning completion in an output side template. It is a logic circuit diagram display example by a program development support device (first conventional example). It is a logic circuit diagram display example by a program development support device (second conventional example). It is explanatory drawing of a safe input / output apparatus corresponding table.

  A preferred embodiment of a program development support apparatus for a safety controller according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a safety control system including a safety controller that is a target of a program development support apparatus according to the present invention. The safety control system shown in FIG. 2A is configured by connecting one safety controller 1 and one or more safety I / O terminals 5 via a bus network 2a. In the safety control system shown in FIG. 2A, the safety controller 1 functions as a master and the safety I / O terminal 5 functions as a slave.

  An input device 3 and an output device 4 are connected to the safety controller 1 and the safety I / O terminal 5, respectively. Examples of the input device 3 include a safety emergency stop switch, a safety light curtain, a safety limit switch, and a safety door switch. Examples of the output device 4 include a safety relay and a safety contactor.

  When applied to the master / slave type safety control system shown in FIG. 1A, the program development support apparatus 10 of the present invention is connected to the bus type network 2a connecting the safety controller 1 and each safety I / O terminal 5. Can be connected. On the other hand, when applied to the single type control system shown in FIG. 4B, the program development support apparatus 10 of the present invention is directly connected via a predetermined cable 2b. Thus, the safety-related control program generated by the program development support apparatus 10 is converted into a format that can be executed by each safety controller 1 and then sent to the safety controller 1.

  A schematic block diagram showing the electrical hardware configuration of the program development support apparatus according to the present invention is shown in FIG. As is apparent with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the program development support apparatus 10 is mainly composed of a notebook personal computer in the illustrated example.

  As is well known to those skilled in the art, the hardware configuration of a notebook computer includes a CPU 11, an input operation unit 12, an image display unit 13, a work RAM 14, a storage device 15, and a communication unit 16. The system bus 17 is connected.

  The CPU 11 is composed mainly of a microprocessor and controls the entire notebook personal computer. The input operation unit 12 is mainly composed of a mouse, a keyboard, and the like, and functions as a human machine interface for giving various commands to the notebook type personal computer.

  The image display unit 13 is composed of a liquid crystal display or the like, and a programming field 201 according to the present invention is displayed on the screen (screen) 13a as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. It has become. The work RAM 14 is used as a work area when the CPU 11 executes a system program, an application program, etc., which will be described later.

  The storage device 15 is configured by a hard disk or the like, and an output image memory 15a, a system memory 15b, and a program memory 15c are arranged therein. In connection with the present invention, the output image memory 15a is used for storing various image data when various images are displayed on the screen 13a of the image display unit 13, and the system memory 15b is used for the notebook personal computer. Used to store the firmware (including the operating system) to configure the basic functions. The program memory 15c is used for storing various application programs to be executed by the notebook personal computer.

  As described above, when the CPU 11 executes various programs and data stored in the output image memory 15a, the system memory 15b, and the program memory 15c, the programs and data are developed on the work area of the work RAM 14 and executed. It is well known that it is done.

  Next, a schematic block diagram showing the electrical hardware configuration of the safety controller 1 is shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, the safety controller 1 includes a communication I / F unit 101, a central processing unit 102, an input terminal unit 104a, and an output terminal unit 104b.

  The communication I / F unit 101 is for realizing an interface function when communication is performed between the safety controller 1 and the networks 2a and 2b. The central processing unit 102 performs overall control of the safety controller 1 as a whole, and mainly includes a microprocessor, a ROM, a RAM, and the like.

  The input terminal unit 104a includes a plurality of input terminals (terminal 1, terminal 2,..., Terminal n) for receiving a signal from the input device 3. On the other hand, the output terminal portion 104b includes a plurality of output terminals (terminal 1, terminal 2,..., Terminal n) for sending output signals to the output device 4.

  The input-side terminal abnormality diagnosis unit 103a has individual diagnosis units corresponding to the respective input terminals included in the input terminal unit 104a. Each individual diagnosis unit is configured as a general-purpose diagnosis unit corresponding to a plurality of input device types, and this diagnosis unit is configured according to the model by setting parameters according to each input device type. It is structured to be built. In the programming work described later, what appears as a parameter of the input function block is a parameter for specializing the terminal abnormality diagnosis unit 103a for each input device type.

  The terminal abnormality diagnosis unit 103b on the output side also has an individual diagnosis unit corresponding to each output terminal included in the output terminal unit 104b. This individual diagnosis unit is configured as a general-purpose diagnosis unit corresponding to a plurality of output device types, and by setting parameters corresponding to each output device, the individual diagnosis unit is specified as a diagnosis unit corresponding to the output device type. It is configured to be

  Next, a block diagram conceptually showing the functions of the program development support apparatus 10 is shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, when focusing on the configuration for realizing the present invention, the functional input elements necessary for the program development support device 10 include a safety input device table 10a, logic circuit diagram data 10b, and settings. Examples thereof include a compiler 10c for creating parameters and a setting parameter 10d converted from the logic circuit diagram data 10b through the compiler 10c. These functional components will be described later with reference to the charts shown in FIGS. 8 to 13 and the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 when the operation of the program development support apparatus according to the present invention is described later. It will be described in detail.

  Next, the operation of the program development support apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Note that the application programs shown in the flowcharts are those stored in the program memory 15c described above with reference to FIG. The operations shown in these flowcharts are collectively executed by the CPU 11 corresponding to the processing unit.

  Flow charts (No. 1 to No. 3) showing the software configuration of the program development support apparatus are shown in FIGS.

  In FIG. 5, when the process is started, first, a process of accepting a user action for setting a safety input / output terminal is executed (step 101). Here, examples of the user action include a predetermined key input operation and a mouse operation in a notebook personal computer constituting the program development support apparatus 10. By this user action, various data related to the safety input / output terminal are set. Various data relating to the safety input / output terminal thus obtained is stored in the work RAM 14 (step 102).

  FIG. 14 shows a screen explanatory diagram at the beginning of arrangement of function blocks (hereinafter also referred to as “FB”) in the input side template, and FIG. 19 shows a screen explanatory diagram at the initial stage of the start of FB arrangement setting in the output side template.

  As shown in FIG. 14, a window 200 for an input safety logic wizard is opened on the screen 13 a of the image display unit 13 of the notebook personal computer constituting the program development support apparatus 10. Here, the “safety logic wizard” is a general term for various user support functions for creating a logic circuit diagram corresponding to a control program for a safety controller.

  In the window 200 thus opened, a horizontally long rectangular programming field 201 is defined, and an input template 202 which is a main part of the present invention is displayed in the programming field 201.

  The input side template 202 corresponds to each intersection of a row (R1, R2, R3,...) Extending in the horizontal direction of the screen and a column (C1, C2, C3) extending in the vertical direction of the screen. In this way, a plurality of block arrangement possible positions are provided. In addition, on the left side edge portion of the input side template 202, information related to the input terminal of the row is displayed in association with each row (R1, R2, R3, R4...).

  In this example, the first row (R1) is assigned to two input terminals [IN0 / 1], and these input terminals are a pair of NC (normally closed) signals from the safety emergency stop switch of the duplex specification. Is set to accept. The second row (R2) is assigned to two input terminals [IN2 / 3], and these input terminals are set to receive a pair of NC signals from a duplex safety door switch. Yes. The third row (R3) is assigned to one input terminal [IN4], and this input terminal is set to receive a signal from a non-redundant specification door switch.

  Corresponding to these input terminal settings, the first column (C1) of the input side template 202 has a self-diagnosis for each terminal corresponding to the terminal settings of each row (R1, R2, R3). Function blocks for realizing the functions are arranged.

  That is, the safety emergency stop switch function block (FB11) has a function corresponding to the second row at the block disposition position (horizontal rectangular small region) corresponding to the first row (R1) of the first column (C1). Redundant safety light curtain function block (FB12) is located at the position where the block can be placed, and the non-redundant safety light curtain function block (FB13) is located at the position where the function block can be placed corresponding to the third row (R3). Each is arranged.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 5, when the processing of steps 101 and 102 is executed, the above-described input terminal setting and function block arrangement are executed.

  Note that the input invalidation function block or the inter-input / output conduction function block (FB01) is arranged at the block arrangement position of each row of the second column (C2) in the input side template 202. Thus, the set / reset function block or the inter-input conduction function block (FB01) is arranged at the block arrangement position of each row of the third column (C3). These mechanisms are realized by making it possible to select function blocks that can be selected for each column only from the menu window.

  Then, at the upper edge of the input-side template 202, indexes 203-1 to 203-3 indicating the meaning contents of the function blocks to be arranged in the columns are provided so as to correspond to the columns (C1, C2, C3). It is displayed. Here, the content of the index 203-1 corresponding to the first column (C1) is “input” indicating an input function block, and the content of the index 203-2 corresponding to the second row (C2). Is an “invalidation” indicating that it is an input invalidation function block, and the content of the index 203-3 corresponding to the third column (C3) is “a set / reset function block” "Reset".

  On the other hand, on the right edge of the input template 202, the same input display information as that of the left edge is displayed for each row (R1, R2, R3, R4...). . That is, in this input side template, each row is allocated to one input signal in units of rows.

  Therefore, according to the input side template 202 having such a structure, function blocks related to the same input signal may be arranged in the same row, and function blocks of the same type may be arranged in the same column. Therefore, a programming error such that a function block to be arranged in one input signal path is arranged in another input signal path, or a plurality of function blocks to be arranged in one arrangement order is arranged in another arrangement order. There is an advantage that it is difficult to cause.

  Next, FIG. 19 shows a screen explanatory diagram at the beginning of the FB arrangement setting start in the output side template. As shown in the figure, in this example, the output side template 210 is displayed in the programming field 201 in the window 200 opened on the screen. In the output side template 210, block disposition positions (horizontal rectangular small regions) corresponding to the intersections of the rows (R1, R2, R3, R4...) And the columns (C4, C5, C6). ) Is defined.

  On the right edge of the output template 210, terminal information associated with each row is displayed so as to correspond to each row (R1, R2, R3, R4...). In the illustrated example, the first row (R1) is assigned to two output terminals [OUT0 / 1] having safety specifications, and each of the output terminals is connected to two safety relays. The The second row (R2) is assigned to one output terminal [OUT2], and this output terminal is connected to one safety relay. In this example, the third row (R3) and the fourth row (R4) are assigned to one output terminal [OUT3] and [OUT4], respectively, but the connection destinations of these output terminals are undetermined. Has been.

  On the other hand, the fourth column (C4) located in the first stage of the output template 210 is assigned to the output condition function block, and the fifth column (C5) as the next column is assigned to the welding check (EDM) function block. Further, the next column, the sixth column (C6), is assigned to the terminal mode function block.

  In order to clarify this, at the upper edge portion of the output side template 210, an index 203- which means a function block to be arranged in that column corresponding to each column (C4, C5, C6), respectively. 4 to 6 are displayed.

  Specifically, the content of the index 203-4 means that it is an output condition function block that determines when the output of each logical value of one or more input signals should be generated. Output conditions ”. The contents of the index 203-5 are “welding check (EDM)” which means a welding check (EDM) function block for performing a welding check of the safety relay connected to the output terminal. The contents of the index 203-6 are “terminal mode” which means a terminal mode function block for setting terminal modes such as on-delay and off-delay.

  In this initial screen, the remote I / O function block (FB61) is arranged at the block arrangement possible position of the first row (R1) of the sixth column (C6), and the second row (R2). The remote I / O function block (FB62) is arranged at the block arrangement possible position.

  The important point here is that each column (C4, C5, C6) is assigned to a specific type of function block in the output side template as in the case of the input side template described above. In particular, since the column (C4) located in the first stage is assigned to the output condition function block, the output condition is at least at the block arrangement possible position of the row where the output condition function block is arranged in the column (C4). A function block related to an output signal obtained by satisfying is established.

  Therefore, according to such an output side template, a function block that performs processing related to the same output signal may be arranged in the same row as the row where the output condition function block that generates the output signal is placed, Since the same type of function blocks need only be placed in specific columns, the function blocks that should be placed in one output signal path are placed in another output signal path as in the case of the template on the input side. Or having a plurality of function blocks that should be arranged in a certain arrangement order is unlikely to cause a programming error.

  Furthermore, according to the program development support apparatus of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 19 separately, the entire template is displayed separately in the input side template 202 and the output side template 210. Therefore, there is also an advantage that programming errors are less likely to occur than when they are combined and displayed.

  That is, as described above, in each of the templates 202 and 210 on the input side or the output side, function blocks related to the same signal are arranged in each row (R1, R2, R3, R4...). However, if this is examined in detail, even in the same column, one is an input signal path and the other is an output signal path in the case of the input side template 202 side and the output side template 210. It can be seen that the meaning of the signal path is greatly different.

  Therefore, if the input side template 202 and the output side template 210 are combined together and a function block is placed in each column of the same row, a function block related to the input signal is placed in the output signal path, Conversely, programming errors such as function blocks to be arranged in the output signal path are likely to occur in the input signal path.

  On the other hand, if the entire template is separated into the input side template 202 and the output side template 210 as in the present invention, even if the boundary line is clearly indicated between the two, the user can Since it is understood that the meaning of the signal path on each side differs from the boundary even in the same line, such a programming error is less likely to occur.

  In addition, as in this embodiment, if the input side template 202 and the output side template 210 are alternatively displayed on separate screens as well as being simply separated into the input side and the output side, It is possible to more reliably prevent an error in the arrangement of function blocks caused by misidentifying such an input signal path and an output signal path.

  In FIGS. 14 and 19 described above, D1 is a scroll bar for scrolling the screen in the vertical direction, D2 is a “return” button for forcibly returning to the previous screen, and D3 is the next screen. "Next" button for forcibly proceeding to D4, D4 is a cancel button for canceling various commands.

  As is apparent from the presence of the scroll bar D1, the input side template 202 and the output side template 210 require 8 input points, 16 points, 32 points, 64 points, and so on. In addition, it can be extended in an arbitrary length in the vertical direction. In this case, a specific line hidden from the screen can be drawn into the programming field 200 by operating the scroll bar D1.

  In the present invention, the above-described safety logic wizard is employed in the input template 202 and the output template 210 described above in order to prevent programming errors due to various causes. The contents of the safety logic wizard will be described later in detail with reference to the charts of FIGS.

  Returning to FIG. 5, when the storage of the safety input / output terminal setting is completed (step 102), the input template 202 to which the safety logic wizard is applied is then displayed as shown in FIG. 14 (step 102). 103) Thereafter, input side circuit diagram data generation processing (step 104), which is the main part of the present invention, is executed. This input side circuit diagram data generation processing is performed with the assistance of the safety logic wizard.

  As shown in FIG. 5, this input side circuit diagram data generation processing (step 104) is performed every time a user action for FB placement on the input side template is performed (step 104a). Whether or not the FB is arranged according to the “column”, and only when the FB is arranged according to the predefined “arrangement column”, the processing for storing (registering) the arrangement content of the FB (step 104b) Is repeated as long as the user's intention to continue the FB arrangement continues (step 104c).

  Here, the pre-defined “arrangement column” as a determination criterion defines in which column on the input side template 202 each function block should be arranged. For example, as shown in FIG. These are stored in the work RAM 14 or the like as safety program template data (input side).

  As shown in FIG. 8, this safety program template data (input side) is a function block that is allowed to be stored in each column (first column, second column, third column,...). “Type name” (input function block, etc.) and a list of individual function blocks included in the “type name” are stored in a table format in association with each other.

  Specifically, an input function block should be stored in the first column, and such function blocks include an unused function block (Not Used), an emergency stop switch function block, a safety light curtain. Function blocks etc. are included. In the second column, an input invalidation function block is to be stored. This input invalidation function block includes an unused function block (Not Used), an OR operation function block (OR), a logical product, An OR operation function block (AND + OR) and the like are included. In the third column, a set / reset function block should be arranged, and this set / reset function block includes an unused function block (Not Used) and a manual reset function block (Low-High-Low signal). Manual reset function block (Rising Edge signal) and the like.

  Returning to FIG. 5, in the process of step 104b, the combination of the “column” specified by the user action (104a) and the specific “function block name” is the safety program template data (input) shown in FIG. By comparing with the side), it is determined whether or not the FB is arranged according to the “arrangement sequence” defined in advance.

  On the input side template 202 shown in FIG. 14, for example, when the logical sum operation function block (FB21) is to be arranged at the block arrangement possible position of the second column (C2) of the first row (R1), the first row Click the (R1) pull-down button (PB2) with the mouse. Then, as shown in FIG. 15A, the menu window 204 is opened so as to overlap the input side template 202.

  In this menu window 204, three function blocks are displayed over three levels. That is, these are an input / output conduction function block (FB01), a logical sum operation function block (FB21), and a logical product and logical sum operation function block (FB22). In this state, if the logical sum operation function block (FB21) is selected by a predetermined operation of the mouse or the like, the selected function block (FB21) is displayed in the first row (R1) and the second column (C2). It is arranged at the specified block arrangement possible position.

  Similarly, for example, when the set / reset function block (FB31) is to be arranged at the block arrangement possible position located in the third column (C3) of the first row (R1), the pull-down button PB3 in the third column is operated. To do. Then, as shown in FIG. 15B, a menu window 205 is opened.

  The menu window 205 displays function blocks that can be selected in two upper and lower levels. They are an input / output conduction function block (FB01) and a set / reset function block (FB31). In this state, when the set / reset function block (FB31) is selected by clicking the mouse or the like, the selected function block (FB31) is located in the third column (C3) of the first row (R1). Arranged to the position where block can be arranged On the other hand, when setting the input invalidation condition from this state, the menu window 206 shown in FIG. 16 is further opened by a predetermined operation of the mouse.

  As shown in the figure, in this menu window 206, a signal name string for AND condition setting and a signal name string for OR condition setting are displayed, and each signal constituting the signal name string is displayed. Check box columns 207 and 208 are displayed at the head of the name.

  Therefore, when the OR operation is selected in the menu window 204 shown in FIG. 15A, as shown in FIG. 16A, the mouse condition is set in the OR condition setting area in the menu window 206. Insert a check mark by clicking. On the other hand, when an AND operation (not shown) is selected in the menu window 204 shown in FIG. 15A, the AND condition area in the menu window 206 is selected as shown in FIG. Then, a check mark is inserted into the check box 207 of the corresponding input signal name by operating the mouse. By such an operation, anyone can easily select the input invalidation function block and set the input invalidation condition.

  When setting the reset condition after selecting the set / reset function block, the corresponding reset condition is set by opening a menu window 209 as shown in FIG. That is, as shown in FIG. 5A, when the pull-down button D7 is operated with the mouse in the menu window 209, a reset condition list is displayed. As shown in FIG. 5B, a desired reset condition can be easily set by operating an OK button D8. In addition, what is necessary is just to operate the cancel button D9, if canceling in order to reset reset conditions.

  FIG. 18 shows an example of the input side template after selecting the function block and setting each condition in this way. As shown in the figure, the input function block, the invalidation condition function block, and the reset function block can be arranged as desired by the selection and designation operations described above.

  As described above, in the input side circuit diagram data generation process (step 104) shown in FIG. 5, every time a function block is arranged by a user action (step 104a), The determination is made as to whether or not the arrangement is going to be made in accordance with "", and only when both are affirmed, the arrangement content of the desired FB is reflected in the logic circuit data (10b). If it is determined that the “arrangement column” is not a predefined one, such FB arrangement is rejected and a predetermined warning is displayed on the screen.

  Therefore, according to the input side circuit diagram data generation processing performed with the support of the safety logic wizard, each function block is correctly placed on the input side template 202 with an appropriate “placement sequence”. The Rukoto.

  When all the desired function blocks are arranged on the input side template 202 in this way (NO in step 104c), the process moves to FIG. 6 and waits for a user action (step 105) for operating the “next” button D3. Then, the process proceeds to a process related to the output template.

  In the processing related to the output side template, first, the output side template 210 in which the safety logic wizard is incorporated is displayed in the programming field 201 (step 106).

  An example of the output template 210 displayed in the programming field 201 in the window 200 is shown in FIG. As described above, this output-side template corresponds to the positions where the blocks can be arranged so as to correspond to the intersections of the rows (R1, R2, R3, R4...) And the columns (C4, C5, C6), respectively. (Horizontal rectangular region) is defined, and the flow of the output signal is defined from the left side to the right side in the row direction.

  Each of the columns (C4, C5, C6) is assigned to a predetermined type of function block related to the output signal. Specifically, in this example, the column (C4) located in the first stage is the output condition function block, the next column (C5) is the welding check (EDM) function block, and the next column (C6). ) Is assigned to each terminal mode function block.

  Returning to FIG. 6, following the display of the output side template (step 106), an output side circuit diagram data generation process (step 107) performed with the assistance of the safety logic wizard is executed.

  This output side circuit diagram data generation processing (step 107) is the same as the input side circuit diagram data generation processing described above, and every time a user action for FB placement on the output side template 210 is performed. (Step 107a) It is determined whether the FB is arranged according to the predefined “arrangement sequence”, and only when the determination is affirmed, the arrangement contents of the FB to be arranged in that way are stored. The process of registering (step 107b) is repeated as long as the FB arrangement on the output side is continued (YES in step 107c). On the other hand, when the above judgment is denied (NO at step 107b), such an FB placement is rejected and a predetermined warning is displayed on the screen.

  Here, in this example, whether or not the FB is arranged according to the predefined “arrangement sequence” is determined based on the contents of the safety program template data (output side) shown in FIG. Is called. That is, as shown in FIG. 9, this safety program template data (output side) includes, for each column, the type names of function blocks that are allowed to be arranged in the columns, and the specific names included in the type names. The function block list is stored in association with each other.

  That is, in the illustrated example, an output condition function block can be arranged in the first column, and the output condition function block includes an unused function block (Not Used), an AND operation function block (AND ) Etc. are included. In addition, a welding check (EDM) function block can be arranged in the second column, and this welding check (EDM) function block includes unused function blocks (Not Used), EDM function blocks, and the like. Is set to Further, a terminal mode function block can be arranged in the third column, and this terminal mode function block includes an unused function block (Not Used), data received from the master (remote I / O), and logic. Output and auxiliary output are included.

  Here, the data received from the master is communicated from the remote I / O terminal (slave) when the safety controller is connected to the remote I / O terminal (slave) via the communication master unit. This means that the data received by the master is output. Moreover, the output from the logic means outputting the calculation result by the logic calculation inside the safety controller. Further, the auxiliary output means that the output from the safety controller is branched to be an auxiliary output.

  Each time a user action for FB placement on the output template is detected (step 107a), the “block placement possible position” and “function block name” designated by the user action are shown in FIG. By comparing with the safety program template data (output side) shown in (1), it is determined whether or not the FB to be arranged is arranged according to a predefined “arrangement sequence”.

  More specifically, assuming that the output side template 210 shown in FIG. 19 is assumed, the welding check (EDM) is performed at the block arrangement possible position specified by the row (R1) and the column (C5). Assume that function blocks are placed.

  In such a case, first, the pull-down button PB5 in the row (R1) is operated with the mouse. Then, as shown in FIG. 20A, a menu window 211 is opened so as to overlap the output side template 210. In this menu window 211, two function blocks are displayed over two levels. That is, they are the output side branch function block FB51 and the EDM function block FB52. Here, the user selects the EDM function block (FB52) by operating the mouse. Then, the selected function block (FB52) is arranged at a block arrangement possible position specified by the row (R1) and the column (C5).

  Further, when setting a welding check (EDM) feedback for the EDM function block (FB52), a menu window 212 is opened by a predetermined mouse operation as shown in FIG. In the menu window 212, a pull-down button D10, an OK button D11, and a cancel button D12 are arranged. In this state, the user displays the feedback signal list by operating the pull-down button D10 with the mouse, selects a desired feedback signal from the list, and confirms it by operating the OK button D11. In the example of FIG. 20B, the input signal IN7 is selected and set as the feedback signal.

  In addition, when a remote I / O function block that has been duplicated is placed at a block placement position specified by row (R1) and column (C6), it is specified by row (R1) and column (C6). The pull-down button PB6 located on the right side of the position where the block can be arranged is operated with the mouse. Then, as shown in FIG. 21A, a predetermined menu window 213 is opened so as to overlap the output side template 210.

  In this menu window 213, two function blocks are displayed in two upper and lower levels. In this example, these function blocks are a duplex-compatible remote I / O function block (FB61) and a non-duplex-compatible logic function block (FB62).

  Here, the user selects a redundant remote I / O function block (FB61) from the menu by operating the mouse. Then, the selected function block (FB61) is arranged at a block arrangement possible position specified by the row (R1) and the column (C6).

  Furthermore, in the case where a logic function block (FB64) that does not support duplication is arranged at the block arrangement possible position specified by the row (R2) and the column (C6), a pull-down button located on the right side of the block arrangement possible position PB6 is operated with a mouse. Then, as shown in FIG. 28B, a menu window 214 is opened so as to overlap the output side template 210.

  In this menu window 214, three function blocks are displayed over three levels. These are a remote I / O function block (FB63) that does not support duplication, a logic function block (FB64) that does not support duplication, and an auxiliary output function block (FB65). Here, the user selects a logic function block (FB64) that does not support duplication. Then, the selected function block (FB64) is arranged at a block arrangement possible position specified by the row (R2) and the column (C6).

  The selection and setting of the output condition function block is performed by selection setting using the menu window in the same manner as in the case of the welding check (EDM) function block (FB52) shown in FIG. When further setting the output condition for the output condition function block selected and set in this way, this embodiment is further provided with an excellent function considering user convenience.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 23, when setting the output condition for the selected output condition function block, the output condition setting window 215 is opened in response to a predetermined operation by the mouse. . In this output condition setting window 215, input signal names that are input candidates for AND conditions that are output conditions are displayed in series, and a check box 216 is provided at the head of each input signal name. An input signal as an output condition can be selected simply by inserting a predetermined check mark into the check box 216 using a mouse. In order to confirm this selection, it is only necessary to operate the OK button D13 with a mouse. Conversely, in order to cancel the setting, the cancel button D14 may be operated with the mouse.

  As described above, when this type of programming work is performed, it is customary to create a safety input / output device target table as shown in FIG. Relying on the table, the output conditions are set.

  Here, in the case of the conventional program development support apparatus as shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, since the setting of the output condition is performed through the drawing operation of the wiring connecting the function blocks, the output condition In order to verify whether or not is correctly set, a complicated operation of collating the safety input / output comparison table with the wiring diagram is required.

  On the other hand, in the case of the present invention, the setting operation of the output condition that defines the logical relationship between the input signal and the output signal is a series of inputs displayed in the menu window 215 as shown in FIG. The corresponding signal name is selected by checking the check box. Therefore, when setting the output condition, the target output condition can be set with a simple operation simply by selecting the check box 216 according to the safety input / output device target table as shown in FIG. it can.

  Also, when verifying whether the output conditions are correctly set in the completed program, it is only necessary to collate the selected state of the check box in the menu window 215 with the input / output device target table created in advance. Well, unlike the conventional example shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, it is not necessary to trace the wiring between function blocks, so that such a verification operation can be accomplished in a short time and easily.

  As data relating to the input signal displayed in the menu window 215, data in the input device table shown in FIG. 11 is used. This input device table is an input terminal setting operation in the input side template 202 shown in FIG. 14, that is, a normal operation performed to set what kind of input device a signal is input to the input terminal. Set by Therefore, no special input information setting operation is required to set the output condition.

  Then, when the input signal name is selected through the selection of the check box by operating the mouse in the menu window 215, the safety output condition setting process shown in the flowchart of FIG. The output condition setting table is completed. The safety output condition setting process shown in FIG. 7 is executed in the output circuit diagram data generation process 107 performed with the support of the safety logic wizard described above.

  That is, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7, when a user action for selecting and setting the safety output condition is performed (step 1071), the safety input device is searched and extracted from the input device table (see FIG. 11). (Step 1072) Based on these extracted input device data, a list of input signals in the menu window 215 shown in FIG. 23 is displayed. That is, as a safety output condition selection screen display, a safety input terminal number, a device name, and the like are displayed in a check box format (step 1073).

  In this state, by checking the check box 216 to select the corresponding safety output condition and confirm the user action to press the “OK” button (step 1074), the safety output condition thus selected is selected. Is stored (step 1075), and this is repeated as many times as necessary (YES in step 1076), thereby completing the output condition setting table shown in FIG.

  FIG. 18 shows the state of the output-side template in which the terminal mode FB, the output condition FB, and the welding check FB are arranged in this way. As is apparent from the figure, it is understood that the selected function block (FB62, FB65, FB52, FB41) is arranged at each designated block arrangement possible position by the above selection setting process. It will be.

  Finally, FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram of the confirmation screen when the FB arrangement is completed in the input template, and FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram of the confirmation screen when the FB arrangement is completed in the output template.

  As is clear from these figures, by repeating the above function block selection and setting operations, necessary function blocks are appropriately arranged at necessary positions on the input side template and the output side template.

  As described above, in the output side circuit diagram data generation processing (step 107) shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6, it is determined whether or not the FB is arranged according to the predefined “arrangement sequence”. Only when it is determined that the FB is arranged in accordance with the “arrangement column”, the arrangement contents of the FB desired to be arranged are stored (registered), and the logic circuit data (10b) shown in FIG. Is generated.

  Returning to FIG. 6, when the necessary function block arrangement on the output side template 210 is completed in this way, a user action corresponding to the operation of the “next” button D3 is awaited (step 107d). The logic circuit data (10b) shown in FIG. 13 generated by the above function block arrangement operation is converted into a data format that can be read by the safety controller with respect to all the function blocks (steps 108 to 110). By collecting the data, a download parameter (safety controller control program) is generated (step 111).

  The download parameter generated in this way is installed in the target safety controller via communication or via a portable recording medium, as in the past.

  As described above, according to the software configuration described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7, the entire function block arrangement template is separated into the input side template 202 and the output side template 210. Since the signal path in 210 is unified to an input signal path or an output signal path, a function block corresponding to an output signal is arranged in the input signal path, or conversely, a function block corresponding to an input signal is arranged in the output signal path. It is difficult to cause a function block layout error.

  In both the input side template 202 and the output side template 210, the same input signal or output signal path exists in each row. As long as they are arranged in the same row in the table, there is an advantage that it is difficult to cause a programming error such that a function block to be arranged in one signal path is mistakenly arranged in another signal path.

  In addition, since the input side template 202 and the output side template 210 are alternatively displayed on the programming field 201, the above-described programming errors are compared with the case where they are displayed simultaneously on one screen while being separated. Is less likely to occur.

  When the input side template 202 and the output side template 210 are alternatively displayed on the programming field 201, the input side template 202 is displayed first and the output side template 210 is displayed later. Therefore, simply by following such a display procedure, the user must arrange the function blocks on the output side template 210 after completing the arrangement of the function blocks on the input side template 202. Considering that the function block placement and parameter settings above require the function block placement and parameter settings on the input template before that, this also has the advantage that programming errors are unlikely to occur. is there

  In addition, when a function block is placed at any of the possible block placement positions, there is a built-in safety logic wizard that guides the function block to a predefined “placement row” according to its type. As a result of the operation of the safety logic wizard, there is no room for a programming error in which a plurality of function blocks are arranged in the wrong sequence in one signal path.

  On the other hand, the function block of the same type will always be placed in the same column by the action of such a safety logic wizard, so if you forgot to place the function block in any row by mistake, This type of safety program can be easily verified simply by searching for the missing part of the function block in units of columns.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 23, the output condition can be set based on a check box format input signal list, and therefore, unlike the conventional wiring diagram format program development support device, the safety input / output device target table. Therefore, it is possible to simplify the programming work and the program verification work.

  As described above, according to the program development support apparatus of each embodiment described above, the entire template is separated into the input side template and the output side template. It will be on the same line.

  In addition, each column (C1 to C6) in each template is guided so that the same type of function block is arranged by the action of the safety logic wizard. Moreover, because of the function of the safety logic wizard, the same type of function blocks are arranged alone in the same column, so even if you forget to place any function block, after the program is completed It is easy to debug this kind of safety controller control program by checking the presence of function blocks for each column and if there is no function block in any row, intensively checking that part Can be done.

  Therefore, according to the structure of the input side template or the output side template, function blocks that should be placed in the same signal path can be separated from each other only by customizing the function blocks related to the same signal in the same row. Thus, it is possible to reliably prevent programming mistakes such as misplacement in the signal path and placement of function blocks to be placed in the input signal path in the output signal path.

  In addition, the function on the input side template has already been arranged in the stage where the function block on the output side template is arranged by presenting the input side template to the user prior to the output side template. Since the arrangement of the blocks is completed, it is possible to prevent programming mistakes by the user.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 23, the output condition can be set based on a check box format input signal list, and therefore, unlike the conventional wiring diagram format program development support device, the safety input / output device target table. Therefore, it is possible to simplify the programming work and the program verification work.

  In the above embodiment, as a menu display mode for facilitating selection of an input signal for setting an output condition, a combination of a list of input signal names and a selection confirmation method using a check box is employed. Instead of this, it goes without saying that various known modes can be adopted as the menu display mode, such as a combination of a list of input signals and a selection confirmation method by reverse display or other active display.

  Further, when the number of input terminals is increased to 16 points, 32 points, 64 points, etc., the number of input signals to be displayed on the menu can be divided into a predetermined number of times or displayed. If the range of input signals that can be output condition candidates is logically estimated to some extent, the input signal group that is estimated as such is preferentially displayed, or input signals that can be output condition candidates based on past history. Needless to say, if the range is estimated to some extent, there are various modes in the way of presenting the input signal name, such as preferentially displaying the input signal group estimated as such.

  According to the present invention, it is difficult to cause a programming mistake such as placing function blocks in the wrong position or in the wrong order, and when such a programming mistake occurs, it is easily found. In addition, it is possible to provide a safety controller program development support device that can easily verify the parameters of the output condition function block in the completed program.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Safety controller 1a Setting parameter 2a Bus type network 2b Direct connection type network 3 Input device 4 Output device 5 Safety I / O terminal 6 User 10 Program development support device 10a Safety logic wizard database (DB)
10b Logic circuit diagram data 10c Compiler 10d Setting parameter 11 CPU
12 Input operation unit 13 Image display unit 14 Work RAM
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 15 Memory | storage device 15a Output image memory 15b System memory 15c Program memory 16 Communication part 17 System bus 101 Communication interface part 102 Central processing part 103a Input side terminal abnormality diagnosis part 103b Output side terminal abnormality diagnosis part 104a Input terminal part 104b Output terminal Section 200 Window 201 Programming field 202 Input side template 203-1 to 203-6 Index 204 Menu window 205 Menu window 206 Menu window 207 Check box 208 Check box 209 Menu window 210 Output side template 211 Menu window 213 Menu window 214 Menu window 215 Menu window (for setting output conditions)
216 Check box (for selecting output conditions)
217 Warning window C1 to C6 row D1 Scroll bar D2 "Back" button D3 "Next" button D4 Cancel button D5 OK button D6 Cancel button D7 Pull down button D8 OK button D9 Cancel button D10 Pull down button D11 OK button D12 Cancel button D13 OK Button D14 Cancel button D15 OK button FB01 I / O continuity function block FB11 Safety emergency stop switch function block FB12 Redundant safety light curtain function block FB13 Redundant non-redundant safety light curtain FB21 Logical sum operation function block FB22 Logical product and logical sum operation Function block FB31 Set / reset function Function block FB52 Welding check (EDM) function block FB61 Redundant remote I / O function block FB62 Redundant compatible logic function block FB63 Redundant incompatible remote I / O function block FB64 Redundant incompatible logic function block FB65 Auxiliary output function Block PB2, PB3 pull-down button row R1, R2, R3, R4

Claims (3)

In the programming field on the screen of the image display, one kind of function block selected from a plurality of kinds of function blocks prepared in advance is sequentially arranged, and necessary unique parameters are set for each function block. A safety controller program development support apparatus in which a control program for a safety controller is automatically generated through a series of user operations for completing a logic circuit diagram corresponding to a desired control specification,
The layout of the function block in the programming field is displayed on the programming field and the block layout position is defined so as to correspond to each crossing position of the row and the column. The function is arranged according to the guide for the function block placement template defined as the input terminal side and the other end side as the output terminal side, and the output condition function block that is one of the function blocks is placed in the corresponding column. The setting of the input signal, which is a specific parameter required when performing the operation, is executed through an operation of selecting a desired input signal from the input signal list displayed in the menu. Program development support device.   The menu display of the input signal list is performed by arranging the names of input signals to be set in a menu window opened on the screen of the image display, and selection of a desired input signal is performed via a selection confirmation means. The safety controller program development support device according to claim 1, wherein the program development support device is a safety controller.   Input signal data used for menu display of the input signal list is acquired by referring to an input device table generated when an input function block, which is one of the function blocks, is arranged in a corresponding column. The program development support apparatus for a safety controller according to claim 2 or 3, wherein

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