Standard function blocks for product oriented programmed process data access

Abstract

The paper presents neutral open function blocks to implement programmed data access logic into controllers programs. The paper proposes an approach similar to the successful IEC MotionControl function blocks technology, which has been defined for neutral programming of axis control. In the same way, neutral access blocks could be programmed for data access and recording, and specific brand controllers would implement them and use to build the manufacturing program. A prototype implementation is presented for CAD/CAM/CNC environments to automate manufacturing processes data access and recording in order to support services of production activity supervision, manufacturing data traceability-recording of relevant information of manufacturing processes for future review in case of fault-etc.