David Friedrich

Implementation and evaluation of UML as modeling notation in object oriented software engineering for machine and plant automation

Abstract Our goal is to increase efficiency and quality in automation engineering in machine and plant manufacturing industry by supporting modularity and reuse. This article proofs that object-oriented model-based design can beneficially be applied in industry and that the code automatically derived from the UML model can be implemented on industrial PLCs without additional effort. We had to solve the formal mapping from UML models to IEC 61131-3 program code in order to use an object-oriented approach with Unified Modeling Language (UML) as modeling notation integrated into a classical Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programming environment (IEC 61131-3).

Benefit of system modeling in automation and control education

This paper will evaluate the benefit of modeling in automation and control education, in analyzing the problem or application, and structuring and implementing its solution, i.e. a control program in IEC 61131-3. The evaluated notations are the Unified Modeling Language (UML) and the Idiomatic Control Language (ICL): UML as nearly standard in computer science and ICL as powerful modeling notation from the distributed control systems world (DCS). A lab experiment was integrated in a course for bachelor and master students from electrical engineering and applied computer science.

Evaluation of UML in Process Automation- Results of an Experimental Approach

This paper reports on a series of lab experiments to evaluate the application of modelling notations in automation and control engineering. The focus of this evaluation was on two aspects: 1) analyzing and modelling the problem or application and 2) implementing its solution into a control program in IEC 61131-3. The evaluated notations are the Unified Modeling Language (UML) and the Idiomatic Control Language (ICL): UML as nearly standard in computer science and ICL as powerful modelling notation from the distributed control systems world (DCS).

Configuration of PLC software for automated warehouses based on reusable components- an industrial case study

In the development of PLC software for automated Production Systems the method copy & paste is commonly used. However, this method leads to various disadvantages. To avoid these disadvantages, a parameter-based concept for planed reuse is presented in this paper. By means of the Siemens PLC software of an automated warehouse, the concept is defined and evaluated. In a first step, the PLC software is analyzed and reusable parts as well as variation points are identified. Subsequently, it is demonstrated that the warehouse variants can be clearly described by a suitable set of parameters. In a last step the automatic configuration of the PLC software by using the identified parameters as well as a Step7 source code template is explained and evaluated.

Integrated automation engineering along the life-cycle

The system and engineering life-cycle in automation technology is supported by various CAE systems in the different phases and disciplines of the engineering process. To reduce faults at the system interfaces and to allow dynamic changes during the engineering process it is necessary to provide standardised interfaces for electronic data exchange. This paper describes the situation in the engineering life-cycle of plant and manufacturing automation and shows the difficulties resulting from changes in one system parameter. Different activity models are introduced and evaluated. Regarding the evaluation results the requirements of the life cycle are defined and a first approach of a life-cycle model for machinery and manufacturing automation are introduced.