Which devices can be supported?
GRAFCET Engine is cross-platform. This means that the GRAFCET created using GRAFCET Studio can run on almost any device.
Are you device manufacturers? GRAFCET Engine is currently available in SCL source code and C#, C++ source code, so that porting can occur in a few days, depending on the target device.
The following device requirements exist for GRAFCET Engine:
- Sufficient memory: At least 40 KB for data and program logic.
- Windows driver to actualise the online interface.
- A real-time clock (RTC) or a millisecond timer.
- Compiler for SCL, C++, C or C#
How does it work?
GRAFCET Engine must firstly be installed on the S7-1200. The easiest way to do this is by using a template project:
- Open the S7-1200 template project
- Save under another (requested) name
- Replace the S7-1200 CPU with the S7-1200 CPU which is currently connected.
- Translate and transfer the project to the CPU
- GRAFCET Studio can now use the S7-1200: Transfer the GRAFCETs, monitor online, reload GRAFCET from the control system.
In addition to the GRAFCET logic, the user can also write other functions using the TIA PORTAL if necessary: ??The GRAFCET logic and PLC user program may coexist and work in conjunction with one another.
Please note: GRAFCET Studio does not require the TIA PORTAL to transfer the GRAFCET to the control system.
Is the device manufacturer's programming tool also required?
GRAFCET Studio cannot completely replace the device manufacturer's programming tool (ie TIA PORTAL, Simatic Manager) as the control system must firstly be prepared for GRAFCET Studio (project template, hardware configuration).
If the control system also unexpectedly or if the hardware configuration must be modified, the manufacturer's programming tool is also required.
However: When the GRAFCET Engine is installed on the control system, the manufacturer's programming tool may not be used as often or may not be used at all.
GRAFCET is easy to learn!
If you don't know what GRAFCET is, you should take a closer look.
With GRAFCET you can create very fast and efficient a sequence control system.
With little time you can learn GRAFCET - the learning curve is very steep.
GRAFCET is also part of the following training occupations in Germany :
- Mechatronics
- Electronics technicians for automation technology
- Electronics technicians for industrial engineering
- Industrial mechanics
- Technical secondary school focal point metal engineering
- 2-year technical school specializing in chemical engineering focal point Production Technology
Also in technical academic high schools GRAFCET is included in the curriculum.
The advantages of using GRAFCET Studio
