You are on page 1of 32

Block Calls and the Multiple Instance Model

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.1 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Contents Page
Blocks for Structured Programming ................................................................................................ 2
Block Overview in STEP 7 ............................................................................................................... 3
Instance Formation of Function Blocks ............................................................................................ 4
Structure of the Multiple Instance Model ............................................................................................. 5
Characteristics of the Multiple Instance Model ................................................................................. 6
Basic Program of the Production Line ............................................................................................. 7
Parameter Description: "FB_Main_Station" (FB 2) Block ............................................................... 9
Parameter Description: "FB_Station" (FB 3) Block ............................................................................. 10
Parameter Description: "FB_Belt" (FB 4) Block ............................................................................. 11
Interconnecting the Blocks (Initial Situation) .................................................................................... 12
Exercise 1: Creating a HW Station and Commissioning the Program ............................................ 13
Task Description: "FB_Sequence" (FB 30) ..................................................................................... 14
Sequential Control of Part Processing using "FB_Sequence" ……………………….…………......… 15
Sequence of Part Processing (According to IEC61131-3) ............................................................... 16
Static Variables of "FB_Sequence" (FB 30) ………………………………………………………….. 17
Parameter Description: "FB_Sequence" (FB 30) Block ................................................................... 18
Exercise 2: Integrating the "FB_Sequence" (FB 30) Block ............................................................. 19
Object-Oriented Programming by Means of Multiple Instances............................................................ 20
Implementing a "Press Line" in STEP 7 ..................................................................................... 21
Task Description: Multiple Instance Model ........................................................................................ 22
Exercise 3: Programming the Processing Time with SFB 4 "TON" ................................................. 23
Task Description: Multiple Instance "FB_Line" (FB 31) .................................................................. 24
Exercise 4: Programming the "FB_Line" (FB 31) .......................................................................... 25
If You Want to Know More ............................................................................................................... 26
Sequence of the Part Processing (According to IEC61131-3) ........................................................ 27
Sequencer: Conversion in STEP 7 (FBD) ....................................................................................... 28
Static Variables of "FB_Sequence" (FB 30) ……………………………………….………………….. 30
Parameter Description: "FB_Sequence" (FB 30) Block ................................................................... 31
Structogram for "FB_Sequence" (FB 30) ....................................................................................... 32

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 1 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Blocks for Structured Programming
Modularization of the OB 1 FB1 FB10
Entire Task: Motor 1 Controller
Controller
Motor 1
z Partial tasks are solved in . . .
their own blocks
FB2 FC 5 SFC
z Parameter assignment Limit
enables flexible usage Valves Copying
Valves value
• Example: Drilling cycle
with parameter- DB 2
assignable depth OB 1 FB 1
Address Decl. Name Type
0.0 in Start BOOL
Re-usability of Blocks: . 0.1 in Stop BOOL
2.0 out Motor_on BOOL
z Blocks can be called as . 4.0 out Speed INT
6.0 stat Speed_old INT
often as is required CALL FB1, DB2 0.0 temp Calc_1 INT
Start :=I 0.0
z Restrictions: Stop :=I 0.1 .
.
• no access to global Motor_on :=Q12.0 .
Speed :=QW14 A #Start
addresses . AN #Stop
= #Motor_on
• communication only via . .
the parameter list

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.2 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Modularization Abstraction is the basis for solving complex problems, in which we concentrate
of Tasks on the fundamental aspects of a program in every abstraction level and ignore
all the details that are not essential. Abstraction helps us to divide complex tasks
into partial tasks which can then be solved on their own.

Structured STEP7 supports this concept of modularization with its block model. The partial
Programming tasks that result from the division of the entire task are assigned blocks in which
the necessary algorithms and data for solving the partial problems are stored.
STEP7 blocks such as functions (FC) and function blocks (FB) can be assigned
parameters so that the concepts of structured programming can be implemented
with them. This means:
• Blocks for solving partial tasks implement their own data management with
the help of local variables.
• Blocks communicate with the "outside world", that is, with the sensors and
actuators of the process control or with other blocks of the user program,
exclusively through their block parameters. No access to global addresses
such as inputs, outputs, bit memories or variables in DBs can be made from
within the instruction section of blocks.

Advantages Structured programming has the following advantages:


• The blocks for the partial tasks can be created and tested independent of
one another.
• With the help of parameters, blocks can be designed so that they are
flexible. That way, for example, a drilling cycle can be created that has the
coordinates and the depth of the drilling hole passed on to it by means of
parameters.
• Blocks can be called as often as is required in different locations with
different parameter data records, that is, they can be reused.
• "Re-usable" blocks for special tasks can be delivered in pre-designed
libraries.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 2 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Block Overview in STEP 7

Type of Block Properties


- user interface
Organization
- graduated priorities (0 to 27)
block (OB)
- specific start information in the local data stack

- parameter-assignable (parameters can be assigned in a call)


Function block (FB)
- with (recall) memory (static variables)

- parameter-assignable (parameters must be assigned in the call)


Function (FC)
- basically without memory (only temporary variables)

- structured local data storage (Instance DB)


Data block (DB)
- structured global data storage (valid throughout the entire program)

System function - FB (with memory) stored in the CPU‘s operating system and
block (SFB) callable by the user

System - function (without memory) stored in the CPU‘s operating system


function (SFC) and callable by the user

System data
- data block for configuration data and parameters
block (SDB)

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.3 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Blocks in STEP 7 Blocks are, by their function, their structure or their application, limited parts of
the user program. The blocks in STEP 7 can - in keeping with their contents - be
divided into two classes :
• User Blocks: User blocks include Organization Blocks (OB), Function Blocks
(FB), Functions (FC) and Data Blocks (DB).
The programming person stores the program instructions for data
processing or process control in the blocks (OB, FB and FC).
In the data blocks (DB), the programming person can save data that occur
during program execution and then reuse them at a later time.
User blocks are created in a programming device and are downloaded from
there into the CPU.
• System Blocks: System blocks include System Function Blocks (SFB),
System Functions (SFC) as well as the System Data Blocks (SDB).
SFBs and SFCs are used to solve frequently required PLC standard tasks.
They are integrated in the CPU‘s operating system.
SDBs contain parameter assignment data that are evaluated exclusively by
the CPU. SDBs are not created or written by the user program, but by tools
such as HW-CONFIG or NETPRO.
SDBs are created by these tools during saving of the parameter
assignment data - invisible to the user - and downloaded into the CPU.
Downloading is only possible in the STOP mode.

Downloading In addition to the advantages of structured programming, the STEP 7 block


Blocks Later On concept also provides the following advantage:
• User blocks (OB, FB, FC and DB) in STEP 7 can be modified and
downloaded into the CPU during runtime.
That way, software parts of the system can be upgraded during running
operation or (software) errors that occur can be eliminated, for example.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 3 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Instance Formation of Function Blocks
OB, FB or FC
FBx DBy
Algorithms Status
for control data
z FB call with
Instance DB
Call FBx, DBy logic
+ of
conveyor
Conveyor
FB Instance

FBx DBy
...
stat Guard FBa
stat Punch FBc Status
z Declaration data
within FBs CALL FBx, DBy of guard
CALL #Guard Guard
(Multi-instances)

CALL #Punch Status


data
of punch

Punch

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.4 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

What is an The concept of instantiating function blocks has great importance and makes up
Instance? the essential distinctive criterion to the FCs. The setting up of variables within a
high level language such as "C" under declaration of variable name and data
type in the declaration is called "instantiate" or "instance forming".
Just like variables, function blocks are also "instantiated". Only through this
‘own’ data area, in which the block parameter values as well as the static
variables are stored, does an FB become an executable unit (FB-instance).
The control of a physical process unit, such as a drive or a boiler then takes
place with the help of an FB instance, that is, a function block with an assigned
data area. The relevant data for this process unit are then stored in this data
area.

Instantiating You can create an FB instance, that is, the assignment of its own memory area
in an FB call, in two ways in STEP 7:
• through the explicit declaration of an instance data block when a function
block is called.
• through the explicit declaration of instances of a function block within a
higher-level function block (multiple instance model).
STEP 7 then makes sure that the data area required for the instance is set
up within the data area of the higher-level FB.

Advantages The instance concept of STEP 7 has the following advantages:


• In the call of FBs, no measures for saving and administrating local data are
necessary except for the assignment of instance DBs.
• A function block can be used several times due to the instance concept. If,
for example, several drives of the same type are to be controlled, then this
takes place using several instances of an FB. The status data of the
individual drives are stored in the static variables of the FB.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 4 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Structure of the Multiple Instance Model

FB4 DB10
FB10
... Control
Such as OB1 logic Data
stat Guard FB4
for a for guard
stat Punch FB5
stat Conv. FB2 guard

.
FB5
CALL FB10,DB10
CALL Guard Control Data
.
. logic for punch
for a
CALL Punch punch
.
CALL Conv. Data
FB2
for
Control conveyor
logic
The figure shows a possible technological for a
structure when only a press and a conveyor Instance DB of FB10
conveyor exist.

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.5 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Multiple Instance In addition to instantiation of function blocks, when you specify an instance
Model DB in an FB call, STEP 7 also supports the explicit declaration of FB instances
within a higher-level function block.
For this purpose, instances of the called function blocks are declared with data
type FB4, FB5 or FB2 using symbolic identifiers (Guard, Punch and Conveyor).
This takes place in the declaration section of the calling FB 10 function block in
the "static variable" section, as illustrated above. Within the higher-level function
block, the individual instances are then called using their symbolic identifier. The
higher-level FB10 function block must, however, be called with its own instance
DB (DB10).
In the creation of the higher-level instance DB, STEP 7 makes sure that the data
areas required for the individual instances are set up in the data area of the
higher-level FB10.
In the call of the individual instances using the symbolic names, the CALL macro
makes sure that the AR2 register is set to the beginning of the data area
assigned to the instance so that the parameters and local variables of the
instance are also accessed during the processing of the called function block.

Benefits The use of the multiple instance model has the following benefits:
• The individual instances do not require their own data block every time.
Within a call hierarchy of function blocks, only one instance DB is used in
the call of the "outer" function block.
• The multiple instance model "welds" a function block and an instance data
area into one object (FB instance), that can also be handled as one unit. The
programming person does not have to take care of the management
(creation, addressing) of the individual instance data areas. He must simply
provide an instance DB for the "outer" FB.
• The multiple instance model supports an object-oriented programming style.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 5 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Characteristics of the Multiple Instance Model
Benefits of the multiple instance model:
z Only one DB is required for several instances
z No additional management is necessary in the setting up of "private"
data areas for the respective instances
z The multiple instance model makes an "object-oriented programming
style" possible (re-usability by means of "aggregation")
z Maximum nesting depth of eight

Prerequisites for the FBs:


z Direct access to the process signals (I, Q) within the FB is not possible
z Access to process signals or communication with other process units
can only take place using FB parameters
z The FB can only remember process states in its static variables, and
not in global DBs or bit memories

Note:
z Instance data can also be accessed from "outside" of the instance FB.
For example, in OB1: L "Pressline".Press_2.Punch.<Varname>

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.6 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Benefits of the With the multiple instance model you can store the respective data sections of
Multiple Instance several instances of one and the same call hierarchy in one single DB.
Model That way only one DB is required for several instances.
With the multiple instance model no measures for the administration of local FB
data are necessary except for the assignment of a mutual instance DB.
The multiple instance model supports the concept of object-oriented
programming. Code and data that are needed for the controlling of process units
are summed up in FBs.
If a process unit consists of hierarchical sub units then exactly this structure can
be reflected in the user program by means of the multiple instance model.
The control program can be designed with FB instances the same way as the
machine may consist of components.
STEP7 supports a nesting depth of eight with the multiple instance model.

Prerequisites for To use an FB as a multiple instance without problems, you must adhere to the
Multiple Instances following:
• For the purpose of process control, no direct access to global addresses of
the CPU (such as inputs and outputs) is allowed. Each access to global
inputs and outputs violates the re-usability.
• Communication with the process or with other program sections (FBs)
must be done only using FB parameters.
Only after integration of the FB into a higher-level unit, is the "assignment" of
the FB through the parameter list carried out with the FB call.
• In its own static variables, the FB must "remember" states or other
information about the unit.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 6 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Basic Program of the Production Line
I 0.0 T_System_ON Q 4.0
I 0.1 T_System_OFF L_SYSTEM Q 4.1
I 0.2 T_Jog_RIGHT L_MAN Q 4.2
I 0.3 T_Jog_LEFT L_AUTO Q 4.3
I 0.4 S_M/A_ModeSelect
I 0.5 T_M/A_Accept Main
I 0.6 (Load/Unload)
Station 1 Station 2 Station 3 Station
I 0.7
"BAY1" "BAY2" "BAY3" "LB"

Raw "L_Bay3"
"T_Bay3" "T_Bay-LB"
Material "L_Bay2"
"T_Bay2" "L_Bay-LB"
"L_Bay1"
"T_Bay1"

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.7 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

How the Production The production line consists of the processing stations 1 to 3, a main station
Line Works and a conveyor belt. Raw material that is placed on the light barrier of the main
station is processed at the stations in the sequence 3-2-1 (in other words, from
right to left). It is then returned to the main station as a completed part.

Operating Modes • You switch the system on (simulator output Q 4.1) through the simulator
input I 0.0. It is switched off through the N.C. simulator pushbutton I 0.1.
• You can preselect the MANUAL mode (simulator output Q4.2) through the
simulator switch I 0.4 ( = ´0´) and the AUTO mode (simulator output Q4.3)
through the simulator switch I 0.4 ( = ´1´).
• The operating mode that is preselected through the simulator switch I 0.4 is
accepted or switched on through the simulator pushbutton I 0.5.
• When you change the operating mode selection (I 0.4) or switch off the
system (Q 4.1), the operating modes are switched off.

MANUAL Mode In the MANUAL mode (Q 4.2 = 1), you can have the conveyor motor jog to the
right using the simulator pushbutton I 0.2 or to the left using I 0.3.

AUTOMATIC Mode After raw material has been loaded onto the conveyor (at LB) at the main
station and the pushbutton "T_Bay-LB" has been pressed, movement to Station
3 begins. When the raw material arrives at Station 3, the station‘s LED begins to
flash to signal the operator that processing has begun. When processing of the
part is finished at Station 3, the operator acknowledges the completion by
pressing the station‘s pushbutton, "T_Bay3". This starts the movement to
Station 2. Processing at Station 2 and then Station 1 works the same as in
Station 3. After completion at Station 1 has been acknowledged, the finished
part is transported back to the main station for unloading. The flashing LED here
indicates that the completed part can be removed. When the part has been
removed from the light barrier, the LED switches to a steady light thus signaling
that a new piece of raw material can be placed on the conveyor.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 7 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Parameter Description: "FB_Modes" (FB 1) Block

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.8 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Declaration Name Type Description


in Parameters T_ON BOOL Switch on #System_ON when Status '1'
T_OFF BOOL Switch off #System_OFF when Status '1'
Mode_Select BOOL Mode preselection:
0 = MAN mode preselected
1 = AUTO mode preselected
Mode_Accept BOOL Accept or activate preselected mode

out Parameters System_ON BOOL Operating status of system


Auto_Mode BOOL Operating status of AUTO mode
Manual_Mode BOOL Operating status of MAN mode

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 8 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Parameter Description: "FB_Main_Station" (FB 2) Block

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.9 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Declaration Name Type Description


in Parameters Enable BOOL Enable Main Station
Photo_Eye BOOL Light barrier of Main Station
Pushbutton BOOL Pushbutton of Main Station: Start production
sequence
Flash_Freq BOOL 2-Hz frequency for optical status indication
Conv_Stopped BOOL Status of conveyor motor: 1 = conveyor stopped
Line_Ready BOOL Status of the 3 processing stations

out Parameters Transp_Req BOOL Start part processing / request transport


Transp_Stop BOOL End of part processing / request stop
Indicator_Light BOOL Status indication:
Continuous light: new part can be loaded
Flashing: start / end part processing

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 9 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Parameter Description: "FB_Station" (FB 3) Block

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.10 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Declaration Name Type Description


in Parameters Enable BOOL Enable processing station
Sta_activate BOOL Activate station for new part processing
Prox_Sw BOOL Station’s proximity sensor
Pushbutton BOOL Pushbutton: Acknowledgement of part processing
Flash_Freq BOOL 2-Hz frequency for station LED

out Parameters Sta_ready BOOL Station is enabled and ready for part processing
(is in initial state)
Stop_busy BOOL Request conveyor stop / part is being processed
(only when station activated and proximity sensor
detects part)
Transp_Ready BOOL Request transport / part processing complete

Indicator_Light BOOL Status indication:


Continuous light: Station activated
Flashing: Part is being processed

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 10 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Parameter Description: "FB_Belt" (FB 4) Block

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.11 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Declaration Name Type Description


in Parameters Manual_Mode BOOL MANUAL mode (signal from FB_Modes)
Auto_Mode BOOL AUTO mode (signal from FB_Modes)
Jog_Right BOOL Jog conveyor motor right
Jog_Left BOOL Jog conveyor motor left
Auto_Stop BOOL Request stop
(from stations or main station)
Auto_Start_Left BOOL Request transport left
(signal from stations or main station)
Auto_Start_Right BOOL Request transport right of the stations
(signal from stations )

out Parameters Conv_Belt_Right BOOL Control conveyor motor right


Conv_Belt_Left BOOL Control conveyor motor left

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 11 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Interconnection of Blocks (Initial Situation)
"DB_Stat1" "DB_Stat2" "DB_Stat3"
"FB_Station" "FB_Station" "FB_Station"

1 Enable Indicator_Light 1 1 Enable Indicator_Light 1 1 Enable Indicator_Light 1


1 Sta_activate Sta_ready 1 Sta_activate Sta_ready 1 Sta_activate Sta_ready

0 Prox_Sw Stop_Busy 0 Prox_Sw Stop_Busy 0 Prox_Sw Stop_Busy

0 Pushbutton Transp_ready 0 Pushbutton Transp_Ready 0 Pushbutton Transp_Ready

Flash_Freq Flash_Freq Flash_Freq

"DB_Belt" "DB_Main_Station"
"FB_Belt" "FB_Main_Station"
Manual_Mode

1 Auto_Mode Enable

Jog_Right 1 Photo_Eye

Jog_Left Pushbutton

Auto_Stop Flash_Freq Transp_Req


Conv_Belt
Auto_Start_Right Right 1 Conv_Stopped Transp_Stop

Conv_Belt Indicator_Light
Auto_Start_left
Left
Line_Ready 1

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.12 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Initial Situation The slide above shows the initial situation for processing raw materials:
On the simulator (PLCSIM), the AUTO mode is activated resulting in a 1-signal at
the #Enable inputs of the stations and at the #Auto_Mode input of the "FB_Belt".
As well, in this first program version, all processing stations are simultaneously
switched active through their input #Sta_Activate.
Through the parameter #Sta_Avail, the stations signal their availability (no
operation in progress and proximity switch empty) to the #Line_Ready parameter
of "FB_Main_Station". All stations‘ indication lights signal their availability with a
steady light.

Production Process When raw material is placed on the light barrier of the main station #Photo_Eye,
the flashing #Indicator_Light signals that processing may be started. After pressing
the start #Pushbutton, "FB_Main_Station" requests transport to the left using
#Transp_Req to #Move_Left_Auto of "FB_Belt".
As soon as the raw material reaches the first activated station - and since all
stations are already activated, this is Station 3 (#Prox_Sw) because of the physical
design of the conveyor model - Station 3 requests "FB_Belt" (#Auto_Stop) to stop
the conveyor motor using #Stop_Busy. Simultaneously, the station begins to
process the raw material, which is indicated by a flashing #Indicator_Light. When
the operator acknowledges processing of the raw material using #Pushbutton,
"FB_Station" signals the end of processing using #Transp_Ready and thus
requests "FB_Belt" (#Move_Left_Auto) to transport the finished part to the next
Documentation of the station. Since the #Transp_Ready of the station is connected to #Move_Left_Auto
Production Process of "FB_Belt", the raw material automatically reaches Station 2, which is already
activated, with the next transport.
The production process at station 2 and then 1 works the same as at station 3.
After the completed part has reached the main station, the main station requests
"FB_Belt" to stop the conveyor motor using #Transp_Stop. As well,
#Indicator_Light signals the operator with a flashing light that the part can be
removed from the belt. After the part has been removed, the production line is
once again in the initial situation and new raw material can be processed.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 12 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Exercise 1: Creating a HW Station and Commissioning the Program

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.13 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Task First of all, you are to create your own exercise project with the name "My_Project".
Then, copy the S7 program "C2_E1_Start" from the "PRO3_Par" project that is
given into your own project on the CPU of your hardware station.
Become familiar with the previously described initial program for the production line
by checking the described functions.

What to Do 1. Create an exercise project with the name "My_Project". It is to contain a


hardware station that is equal to your exercise controller. In the CPU
properties, parameterize the MB10 as clock memory byte.
2. From the "PRO3_Par" project, copy the S7 program "C2_E1_Start" into your
own project "My_Project".
3. Using the HW Config tool, regenerate the system data of your hardware station
since these were lost or overwritten when you copied the "C2_E1_Start".
3. Check the described functionality of the conveyor model as production line.

Notes At this stage, the "FB_Sequence" (FB30) block is not yet integrated into the entire
program and therefore does not fulfill any function as yet. It still has to be
commissioned by you in the following exercise.
In addition to the initial program for the production line, the project "PRO3_Sol" also
contains other S7 programs that contain the sample solutions for the following
configuration exercises.
You can use the sample solutions as help in solving the following configuration
exercises, among other things.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 13 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Task Description: "FB_Sequence" (FB 30)
Conveyor
Control Station 1 Station 2 Station 3 Main_Station

"FB_Belt" FB_Station FB_Station FB_Station "FB_Main_Station"

Left
Right

L_Bay1 L_Bay2 L_Bay3 L_Bay-LB

T_Bay1 T_Bay2 T_Bay3 T_Bay-LB

Possible work sequences:


"F B _ S e q u e n c e" to Station 2
"IW_BCD_Sequence", IW2
(thumbwheel on the simulator)
to Station 3
0 1 2 3 to Station 1
0 1 3 2
Back to Main Station
0 2 1 3
0 2 3 1
0 3 1 2
0 3 2 1

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.14 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

The Function The station sequence 3->2->1 for the processing of parts in the production
Up Until Now line is defined by the program.

Task The station or work sequence in which a raw material is processed in the
production line is to be freely definable for each raw material using
"IW_BCD_Sequence" (BCD thumbwheel IW2 on the simulator). Each piece must
be processed exactly once at every station. This makes exactly 6 different
processing sequences possible (see slide).
The new FB to make the processing sequence flexible must activate the stations
individually according to a predefined sequence because – up until now – when
all stations were activated simultaneously at the beginning of part processing,
Station 3 was always the first processing station.
As well, "FB_Sequence" must now give "FB_Belt" the request for transport left or
right instead of the Station FBs. This is because the "FB_Station" does not
evaluate the predefined work sequence and thus cannot decide whether it is to
request a transport to the left or the right from "FB_Belt". The stations themselves
continue to request the conveyor to stop as soon as they are activated and a
production part reaches the appropriate proximity switch.

Re-usability The newly created "FB_Sequence" (FB 30) function block is to be re-usable.
That is, only local (temp or stat) variables and parameters may be used inside the
FB – no global addresses such as inputs, outputs or bit memories – .

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 14 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Sequential Control of Part Processing using "FB_Sequence"
#Work_Sequence Station
Station 11 Station
Station 22 Station
Station 33 Main
Main Station
Station
#First_Sta_Activate
#Work_Sequence_123 = true #Second_Sta_Activate #Third_Sta_Activate #Go_To_Unload

#First_Sta_Activate
#Second_Sta_Activate
#Work_Sequence_132 = true #Third_Sta_Activate
#Go_To_Unload
#Second_Sta_Activate #First_Sta_Activate
#Work_Sequence_213 = true #Third_Sta_Activate #Go_To_Unload

#First_Sta_Activate
#Second_Sta_Activate
#Work_Sequence_231 = true #Third_Sta_Activate
Steps
#Go_To_Unload

#Second_Sta_Activate #First_Sta_Activate
#Work_Sequence_312 = true #Third_Sta_Activate #Go_To_Unload

#Third_Sta_Activate #Second_Sta_Activate #First_Sta_Activate


#Work_Sequence_321 = true
#Go_To_Unload

#Work_Sequence #Transp_Req_LFT #Transp_Req_RT


1-2-3 #First_Sta_Activate #Second / #Third_Sta_Activate, #Go_To_Unload
1-3-2 #First / #Third_Sta_Activate #Second_Sta_Activate, #Go_To_Unload
Actions 2-1-3 #First / #Second_Sta_Activate #Third_Sta_Activate, #Go_To_Unload
2-3-1 #First / #Third_Sta_Activate #Second_Sta_Activate, #Go_To_Unload
3-1-2 #First / #Second_Sta_Activate #Third_sta_Activate, #Go_To_Unload
3-2-1 #First / #Second / #Third_Sta_Activate #Go_To_Unload

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.15 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Sequential The slide shows that the production line part processing follows a strict step
Control System sequence and that it can be divided into steps that are always carried out in the
same sequence.

Steps In the first step (#First_Sta_Activate) the station is always activated - according to
the specified #Work_Sequence - where part processing begins (for example, this
would be Station 2 when #Work_Sequence 2 - 3 - 1 is specified) and transport to
the station is started.
Processing advances to the next step as soon as the station signals the end of
processing or requests a transport.
In the following step (#Second_Sta_Activate) the next station is always activated -
according to the specified #Work_Sequence - (for example, this would be Station 3
when #Work_Sequence 2 - 3 - 1 is specified) and transport to the station is started,
etc.

Actions In every step, actions must be carried out such that a station must be activated and
a transport to the left or right has to be initiated.
The table (at the bottom of the slide) shows, for each #Work_Sequence, in which
step a transport to the left or the right has to be initiated.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 15 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Sequence of Part Processing (According to IEC 61131-3)

Transitions Steps Actions

T5

S0 Initialization
#Initial_Step
#Main_Station_Transp_Req T1
S1 N #Sta_X_Activate
#First_Sta_Activate
L #Transp_Req_L / R
#Sta_X_Transp_Req T2
S2 N #Sta_Y_Activate
#Second_Sta_Activate
L #Transp_Req_L / R
#Sta_Y_Transp_Req T3
S3 N #Sta_Z_Activate
#Third_Sta_Activate L #Transp_Req_L / R
#Sta_Z_Transp_Req T4
S4
L #Transp_Req_R
#Go_To_Unload
#Main_Station_Transp_Stop T5
S0

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.16 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Sequencers A sequence of operations, or general steps, can be represented as a


sequencer, as shown in the slide, according to the IEC 61131-3 (IEC =
International Electrotechnical Commission). The structure of the sequencer
emulates the exact step-by-step execution, from top to bottom, of the actual
physical process.
The individual steps of the production process are displayed in the middle
column, in the right column the actions that have to be executed in each step of
the process, and in the left column the conditions (transitions) as to when
advancement takes place from one step to the next.

Steps The production process is divided into a time-ordered sequence of steps. In the
sequencer program, a step variable of the BOOL data type is declared within the
program for every physical step. That way, every step variable represents a
phase of part processing. In "FB_Sequence" these step variables are named
#Initial_Step, #First_/#Second_/#Third_Sta_Activate, and #Go_To_Unload.
In our example of part processing, the step sequence is strictly linear so that at
any particular time only one step can be active.
In more complex production processes, parallel branches, jumps, and loops are
also possible so that several step variables can also be set simultaneously.

Initial Step The initial step defines the starting point of the sequencer. With #Reset = 1, the
initial step is first of all set without querying for additional conditions.
When the initial step is activated, all other step variables are deactivated or
reset. That is, the sequencer is initialized (action of the initial step). The active
initial step thus supplies the information that no other step is active.

Note You will find the sequencer program in the FBD language at the end of the
chapter.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 16 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Static Variables of "FB_Sequence" (FB 30)

"FB_Sequence"

w#16#231 Work_Sequence Checking the work sequence Work_Seq_Error


Sorting the parameters / stat Var
Example: #Work_Sequence_231 = true
Main_Station_Transp_Req

Station_1_Transp_Req
First_Sta_Transp
Station_2_Transp_Req
Second_Sta_Transp
Station_3_Transp_Req
Third_Sta_Transp

Transp_Req_R
Transp_Req_L
Sequencer
First_Sta_Activate
Sta_1_Activate
Second_Sta_Activate
Sta_2_Activate
Third_Sta_Activate
Sta_3_Activate

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.17 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Static In addition to the IN and OUT parameters, the declaration of the following static
Variables (BOOL) variables makes sense:
#Work_Sequence_123 Operation sequence or station sequence 1-2-3
#Work_Sequence_132 Operation sequence or station sequence 1-3-2
#Work_Sequence_213 Operation sequence or station sequence 2-1-3
#Work_Sequence_231 Operation sequence or station sequence 2-3-1
#Work_Sequence_312 Operation sequence or station sequence 3-1-2
#Work_Sequence_321 Operation sequence or station sequence 3-2-1
#First_Sta_Transp Transport request of first station
#Second_Sta_Transp Transport request of second station
#Third_Sta_Transp Transport request of third station

Assignment of The internal static variables are used to "sort" FB input parameters and FB output
Static Variables parameters. Depending on the operation sequence passed, the FB input
parameters #Sta_1/_2/_3_Transp_Req are assigned to the internal, static variables
#First_/Second_/Third_Sta_Transp (transitions), and the internal static variables
(steps) #First_/#Second_/#Third_Sta_Activate are assigned to the FB output
parameters #Sta_1/_2/_3_Activate (actions). Even the control of the FB outputs
#Transp_Req_L/R (actions) depends on the #Work_Sequence passed and must be
implemented with the appropriate logic.
The slide shows an example of how the "sorting" for the operation sequence 2 - 3 -
1 is to be made. The checking of the specified #Work_Sequence can be
programmed using comparison. Their results can be assigned to the static variables
#Work_Sequence_XYZ (BOOL) and be further gated.
In the program section "Sequencer", in which the already "sorted" static variables
are exclusively gated, only one single step series has to be programmed.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 17 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Parameter Description: "FB_Sequence" (FB 30) Block

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.18 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Declaration Name Type Description


in Parameters Enable BOOL Enable block
Work_Sequence WORD Processing sequence at the 3 stations
Main_Sta_Transp_Req BOOL Transport request from Main Station
Main_Sta_Transp_Stop BOOL Request stop from Main Station
Sta_1_Transp_Req BOOL Transport request from Station 1
Sta_2_Transp_Req BOOL Transport request from Station 2
Sta_3_Transp_Req BOOL Transport request from Station 3

Note
When a station requests transport using Station_x_Transp_Req, it is also a signal that it has
completed its part processing.

out Parameters Work_Seq_Error BOOL Message 'invalid work sequence specified'


Process_active BOOL A part processing is active from Start by the
Main Station until Stop by the Main Station
Sta_1_activate BOOL Activate Station 1 for part processing
Sta_2_activate BOOL Activate Station 2 for part processing
Sta_3_activate BOOL Activate Station 3 for part processing
Transp_Req_R BOOL Request transport to the RIGHT
Transp_Req_L BOOL Request transport to the LEFT

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 18 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Exercise 2: Integrating the "FB_Sequence" (FB 30) Block

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.19 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Task The "FB_Sequence" (FB30) block already exists and all you have to do is
integrate it in the complete program.

What to Do 1. Integrate the FB30 in the complete program. For this, declare temporary
variables in OB 1 to interconnect the FB 30 with the other blocks (see slide).
2. Give the Instance DB 30 the symbolic name "DB_Sequence".
3. Check the functioning of the newly integrated FB 30 by entering various
processing sequences on the BCD thumbwheel "IW_BCD-Sequence" (IW2)
on the simulator (see slide).

Test Follow the control of the processing sequence by monitoring the program
sections of the "sequencer" within FB30 with the test function "Monitor Block".

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 19 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Object-Oriented Programming by Means of Multiple Instances

Example: Pressline
FB: "Pressline"
FB: #Press_1
Press_1 Press_2
FB: #Punch

FB: #Guard
Punch
Guard
FB: #Press_2

FB: #Punch

FB: #Guard

Transport
FB: #Transport

Machine Structure
Logical division of the
program with the help of
FB instances

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.20 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Process Units Process units are physical objects in the process, such as units of a production
line (transport belt, processing stations) or a complete machine or parts of a
machine (such as the complete press or the punch or the guard of a press).
Process units are used as logical identification criteria. They are, as a rule, of a
hierarchical design. In this way, process units can contain sub-units (for
example, the unit "Press" contains the units "Punch" and "Guard") and may be
configured from smaller sub-units (aggregation).

Object-oriented You can implement an object-oriented programming style with the help of
Programming Style function blocks. The function of a process unit or process sub-unit program is
handled within an FB instance. The division of the user program into units is
achieved by declaring lower-level FB instances within a higher-level FB.
In this way, the same division into process units is achieved in the user program
as in the existing system or machine. This is the concept of object-oriented
programming using aggregation.

Re-usability of This hierarchical concept offers a high measure of re-usability of one-time


Software generated software and thus offers a great savings potential in the creation,
modification and upkeep of user programs:
• Whenever a manufacturer creates a process sub-unit (such as valve or
motor), he also delivers an FB for controlling this process sub-unit.
• Whenever such a physical process unit is built into the next larger unit, an
FB instance of the unit is also declared in the FB of the higher-level unit.
FBs are the basic components of a control program. In the planning stages of a
program, they have the same task as the integrated circuits (ICs) in printed
circuit board manufacturing. The structure of user programs consists of pre-
fabricated FBs, which must simply be interconnected.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 20 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Implementing the "Press Line" in STEP 7
FB4:"Punch" DB10
FB1:"Press"
... Data of FB10
FB10:"Pressline" stat Punch FB4
stat Guard FB5 Data for Press_1
... ...
OB1 stat Press_1 FB1 FB5:"Guard" Press_1. Punch
stat Press_2 FB1 CALL #Punch
stat Transport FB2 .
... CALL #Guard Press_1. Guard

FB1: "Press" Data for Press_2


CALL FB10, DB10 CALL #Press_1 ...
FB4:"Punch"
stat Punch FB4 Press_2. Punch
. stat Guard FB5
CALL #Press_2 ...
. Press_2. Guard
CALL #Punch
CALL #Transport .
CALL #Guard FB5:"Guard"
Data for Transport
FB2: "Transport"
...
... Instance-DB of FB10

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.21 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Multiple Instance When a multiple instance model is used, the instance DB contains the data for
Model several function blocks of a call hierarchy. The instances of the called function
blocks are declared using symbolic identifiers in the static variable section of
the declaration section of the calling FB.
The FB instance for the highest-level process unit (in this example, FB10
"Pressline") must be called absolutely or symbolically, along with the
specification of its own instance DB (DB10 here).

Declarations In the static variable section of the declaration part of FB10 ("Pressline"), two
instances (variables) of the data type FB1 ("Press") with the names #Press_1
and #Press_2 are declared, as well as an instance of the data type FB2
("Transport") with the name #Transport.
In the declaration part of FB1 both an instance of FB4 ("Punch") with the name
#Punch and an instance of FB5 ("Guard") with the name #Guard are declared.
In the instruction section of FB1 ("Press"), the respective FB instances are then
called using the symbolic names #Punch and #Guard that were declared in the
declaration section.

Note The declaration of an instance in the declaration part of a function block works
only if the FB being used in the declaration already exists.
When designing such a call hierarchy, you must first create those FBs that are
to be called last in the chain.

Multiple Instance DB The multiple instance DB has the same structure as the declaration parts of the
function blocks concerned. If an instance is called in the instruction section, then
it automatically accesses the data in the corresponding section of the instance
DB (see DB10 above).

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 21 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Task Description: Multiple Instance Model

Main
Conveyor (Load/Unload)
Control Station 1 Station 2 Station 3 Station

"FB_Belt" "FB_Station" "FB_Station" "FB_Station" "FB_Main_Station"

Multi - Instances

Left
Right

#TON_Delay #TON_Delay #TON_Delay


_Proc _Proc _Proc
TON TON TON L_Bay-LB

T_Bay-LB

Work sequence "FB_Sequence"

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.22 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

The Function When a piece reaches an activated station, "FB_Station" (FB 3) initiates
Up Until Now "FB_Belt" (FB 4) to stop the conveyor motor and begin processing the part.
Processing is indicated by a flashing station LED and is acknowledged or ended
by the operator by pressing the station‘s pushbutton.
Then "FB_Station" signals the end of processing using the parameter
#Transp_Ready and simultaneously signals a request for transport to
"FB_Sequence".

Task The three processing stations are to process the part automatically so that a
processing acknowledgement by the operator is no longer necessary.
A #Proc_Time (format Time) is passed to "FB_Station" for this. After this
processing time has run out, "FB_Station" is to signal the end of processing
and/or request transport using the above mentioned parameters.
The "FB_Station" (FB 3) function block that is to be changed is to continue to be
re-usable. That is, the processing time must be implemented inside the FB using
an instance or a static variable of the system function block type (SFB 4,
symbolic name "TON", on-delay timer).

Note If instances of existing FBs or SFBS are called in a function block, then the
instance data required for these are found in the instance data block (multiple
instance) of the calling FB. No additional instance data blocks have to be
created for the called instances (FBs or SFBs). That is, the call is made without
specifying an instance DB.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 22 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Exercise 3: Programming the Processing Time with SFB 4 "TON"

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.23 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

What to Do When you do the exercise, please proceed as follows:


1. In FB 3 replace the original input parameter #Pushbutton of the BOOL type
with the new input parameter #Proc_Time of the TIME type.
2. Declare the static variable #TON_Delay_Proc of the SFB 4 type ("TON", on-
delay timer) and the temporary variable #TON_Proc_Done of the BOOL
type. These will be used later when querying whether the specified
#Proc_Time has run out.
3. Program the call of #TON_Delay_Proc and assign the binary result of this
time function to the variable #TON_Proc_Done..
4. Gate the temporary variable #TON_Proc_Done with those locations in the
program where the input parameter #Pushbutton was queried up until now.
5. Due to the changes made in "FB_Station" (FB 3), the calls of the FB in OB1
must be updated and the associated instance data blocks must be
regenerated as follows:
Open OB 1 and, one after the other, select the FB 3 calls Æ Edit Æ Call Æ
Update...
6. Check how of the modified "FB_Station" (FB 3) functions by passing, in
OB 1, different time values in the form of a constant (e.g. T#2s) for the
respective calls for the individual stations.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 23 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Task Description: Multiple Instance "FB_Line" (FB 31)

Main
Conveyor Production Line (Load/Unload)
Control Station
"F B _ L I n e"
"FB_Belt" #Station_1 #Station_2 #Station_3 "FB_Main_Station"

Left
Right
#TON_Delay #TON_Delay #TON_Delay
_Proc. _Proc. _Proc.
TON TON TON L_Bay-LB

T_Bay-LB

Work sequence "F B _ S e q u e n c e"

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.24 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Task Since the Stations 1 to 3 physically represent one production line entity in which
parts can be processed in any operation sequence, the functionality of the
production line is now to be summarized within the program in one function
block (FB 31).
Just as in the last exercise where an instance or a static variable of the type
SFB 4 ("TON") was declared in "FB_Station" (FB 3), you must now create an
"FB_Line" (FB 31) and in it declare the instances or static variables #Station_1,
#Station_2, #Station_3 of the type FB 3 and the static variable #Sequence of the
type FB 30.
In OB1 it is then no longer necessary to call the FB 3 once for every station and
FB 30 for controlling the sequence. Instead, "FB_Line" (FB 31) only has to be
called once. It controls the functioning of the production line. Accordingly, the
instance data blocks of the stations and the control of the sequence (DB 30 - DB
33) are also no longer required. Instead, only one multiple instance DB will be
used.
The resulting "FB_Line" (FB 31) thus represents the functionality and the
(multiple) instance DB represents the states of the production line (without the
feed station and without the conveyor control).

Re-usability The new "FB_Line" (FB 31) function block is to be re-usable. That is, no
absolute addresses may be directly used inside the FB - not even to supply
blocks called internally with actual parameters (SFC, SFB, FC, FB).
This makes it necessary to declare input parameters and output parameters in
FB 31 for all the input and output parameters of the three stations as well as the
control of the sequence (see the prevailing calls in OB 1: three calls of FB 3 for
the stations 1 to 3 and one call of FB 30 for the control of the sequence). These
input and output parameters of the higher-level FB 31 then have to be internally
interconnected with the input and output parameters of the called instances
(FBs).

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 24 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Exercise 4: Programming the "FB_Line" (FB 31)

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.25 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

What to Do When you do the exercise, please proceed as follows:


1. In FB 31, declare input and output parameters (see slide) for all input and
output information of the three station instances (FB 3 calls) as well as the
sequence instance (FB 30).
2. In FB 31, declare temporary and static variables so that you can connect the
called instances with one another (see existing interconnections in OB 1).
Note:
You can use temporary variables to pass (interconnect) information or
signals that run in the program processing direction (in other words, from one
instance to another, later called instance, from "top to bottom" as it were). If
information needs to be passed "from bottom to top" within an FB, static
variables must be used because the cyclic program processing causes
temporary variables to get overwritten between program scans.
3. In OB 1, delete the three calls of FB 3 (Station 1 to 3) and that of FB 30
("FB_Sequence"). In their place, program the call of "FB_Line" (FB 31). Use
DB 123 as the (multiple) instance DB.
4. In OB 1, interconnect "FB_Line" (FB 31) with the rest of the blocks in the
program. Use the existing already declared variables to accomplish this.
5. Delete the current instance DBs of the stations and that of the sequence
control (DB 30 to DB 33) in your project as well as in the CPU. These DBs
are no longer required since the associated data is now stored in the multiple
instance DB 123.
6. Download all blocks to the CPU and test the program for proper operation.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 25 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
If You Want to Know More

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.26 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Note The following pages contain either further information or are for reference to
complete a topic.
For more indepth study we offer advanced courses and self-learning mediums.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 26 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Sequence of Part Processing (According to IEC 61131-3)

Transitions Steps Actions

T5

S0 Initialization
#Initial_Step
#Main_Station_Transp_Req T1
S1 N #Sta_X_Activate
#First_Sta_Activate
L #Transp_Req_L / R
#Sta_X_Transp_Req T2
S2 N #Sta_Y_Activate
#Second_Sta_Activate
L #Transp_Req_L / R
#Sta_Y_Transp_Req T3
S3 N #Sta_Z_Activate
#Third_Sta_Activate L #Transp_Req_L / R
#Sta_Z_Transp_Req T4
S4
L #Transp_Req_R
#Go_To_Unload
#Main_Station_Transp_Stop T5
S0

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.27 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Sequencers A sequence of operations, or general steps, can be represented as a


sequencer, as shown in the slide, according to the IEC 61131-3 (IEC =
International Electrotechnical Commission). The structure of the sequencer
emulates the exact step-by-step execution, from top to bottom, of the actual
physical process.
The individual steps of the production process are displayed in the middle
column, in the right column the actions that have to be executed in each step of
the process, and in the left column the conditions (transitions) as to when
advancement takes place from one step to the next.

Steps The production process is divided into a time-ordered sequence of steps. In the
sequencer program, a step variable of the BOOL data type is declared within the
program for every physical step. That way, every step variable represents a
phase of part processing. In "FB_Sequence" these step variables are named
#Initial_Step, #First_/#Second_/#Third_Sta_Activate, and #Go_To_Unload.
In our example of part processing, the step sequence is strictly linear so that at
any particular time only one step can be active.
In more complex production processes, parallel branches, jumps, and loops are
also possible so that several step variables can also be set simultaneously.

Initial Step The initial step defines the starting point of the sequencer. With #Reset = 1, the
initial step is first of all set without querying for additional conditions.
When the initial step is activated, all other step variables are deactivated or
reset. That is, the sequencer is initialized (action of the initial step). The active
initial step thus supplies the information that no other step is active.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 27 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Sequencer: According to IEC61131-3

S1
#First_Sta_Activate

#First_Sta_Transp_Req T2
S2 N #Sta_Y_Activate
#Second_Sta_Activate L #Transp_Req_L / R

Sequencer: Conversion to STEP 7 Ladder Logic

Sequencer: Command Output (Actions):

#First_Sta #First_Sta #First_Sta #Work_ #Second_Sta #First_Sta


_Activate _Transp_Req _Activate Sequence_XYZ _Activate _Activate
R

#Second_Sta #Transp
_Activate _Req_L/R
S (other conditions)

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.28 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Transitions Transitions are step-enabling conditions in which the transition from one step to
the next takes place. Step-enabling conditions can be process signals (for
example, signals from sensors, limit switches etc.) and/or they can result from
logical relationships.
In our example, the step-enabling conditions result from the signals of other FBs
that are passed to the "FB_Sequence" using the IN parameter
(#Stations_Ready, #Main_Sta_Transp_Req, #Main_Sta_Transp_Stop, #Stat_1/
2 / 3_Transp_Req). In the slide, the step-enabling conditions
#First/Second/Third_Sta_Transp_Req are given instead of the
Stat_1/_2/_3_Transp_Req since the sequence of the step-enabling conditions
depends on the operation sequence specified.

Sequencer In the Sequencer program section, the step variables are managed and the user
determines the sequence of the production process. As a rule, a separate
network is created for every step variable.
A step variable is set when the previous step is active AND the transition
associated with this step is fulfilled. At the same time, the previous step is reset
under the same conditions. The querying of the two conditions Previous Step
AND Transition prevents the unwanted activation of a step at the wrong time.
The Sequencer program section is responsible exclusively for the setting and
resetting of step variables, not for the control of process actuators or the
execution of actions.

Command Output In the Command Output program section, the user determines what is to happen
in which step. One or more actions are assigned to each step. The actions can
be given the following properties:
D = delayed (time-delayed after activating the step)
N = not stored (the action is only executed as long as the step remains active)
L = limited (limited to a specific time period even if step is active longer)

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 28 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Sequencer: Conversion to STEP 7 (Ladder)

Initial Step : First Step :


#Main_Sta_
#Main_Sta_Transp_Stop #Initial_Step #Initial_Step Transp_Req #Initial_Step
S R

#First_Sta
_Activate #First_Sta
_Activate
R
S
#Second_Sta
_Activate
R

#Third_Sta Last Step:


_Activate
R #Third_Sta #Third_Sta #Third_Sta
_Activate _Transp _Activate

#Go_To_Unload R

#Go_To_Unload
S

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.29 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Significance of the With the initial step, the starting point of the sequencer is defined in the program
Initial Step - in other words, the "step" before Step 1" (here #First_Sta_Activate)
In our example, the parameter #Main_Sta_Transp_Stop corresponds to the
transition to the initial step. This parameter is passed the state ´1´, when a
completed part has been returned to the main station (signal from
"FB_Main_Station").
When the initial step is set, the sequencer is initialized in the program. That is all
other step bits are reset. The active initial step thus supplies the information that
no other step is active, which is an essential condition for the activation of the
first "real" step. The query #initial_step AND #Main_Sta_Transp_Req thus
supplies the exact condition for setting the first "real" step #First_Sta_Activate.

Last Step The last step (#Go_To_Unload) is set when the next to the last step
(#Third_Sta_Activate) is active AND the transition (#Third_Sta_Transp) is
fulfilled.
The last step is reset when the initial step is set with the appropriate transition
(#Main_Sta_Transp_Stop) (see slide, Initial Step)

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 29 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Static Variables of "FB_Sequence" (FB 30)

"FB_Sequence"

w#16#231 Work_Sequence Checking the work sequence Work_Seq_Error


Sorting the parameters / stat Var
Example: #Work_Sequence_231 = true
Main_Station_Transp_Req

Station_1_Transp_Req
First_Sta_Transp
Station_2_Transp_Req
Second_Sta_Transp
Station_3_Transp_Req
Third_Sta_Transp

Transp_Req_R
Transp_Req_L
Sequencer
First_Sta_Activate
Sta_1_Activate
Second_Sta_Activate
Sta_2_Activate
Third_Sta_Activate
Sta_3_Activate

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.30 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Static In addition to the IN and OUT parameters, the declaration of the following static
Variables (BOOL) variables makes sense:
#Work_Sequence_123 Operation sequence or station sequence 1-2-3
#Work_Sequence_132 Operation sequence or station sequence 1-3-2
#Work_Sequence_213 Operation sequence or station sequence 2-1-3
#Work_Sequence_231 Operation sequence or station sequence 2-3-1
#Work_Sequence_312 Operation sequence or station sequence 3-1-2
#Work_Sequence_321 Operation sequence or station sequence 3-2-1
#First_Sta_Transp Transport request of first station
#Second_Sta_Transp Transport request of second station
#Third_Sta_Transp Transport request of third station

Assignment of The internal static variables are used to "sort" FB input parameters and FB output
Static Variables parameters. Depending on the operation sequence passed, the FB input
parameters #Sta_1/_2/_3_Transp_Req are assigned to the internal, static variables
#First_/Second_/Third_Sta_Transp (transitions), and the internal static variables
(steps) #First_/#Second_/#Third_Sta_Activate are assigned to the FB output
parameters #Sta_1/_2/_3_Activate (actions). Even the control of the FB outputs
#Transp_Req_L/R (actions) depends on the #Work_Sequence passed and must be
implemented with the appropriate logic.
The slide shows an example of how the "sorting" for the operation sequence 2 - 3 -
1 is to be made. The checking of the specified #Work_Sequence can be
programmed using comparison. Their results can be assigned to the static variables
#Work_Sequence_XYZ (BOOL) and be further gated.
In the program section "Sequencer", in which the already "sorted" static variables
are exclusively gated, only one single step series has to be programmed.

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 30 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Parameter Description: "FB_Sequence" (FB 30) Block

SIMATIC S7 SITRAIN Training for


Date: 18.09.2009
File: PRO3_02E.31 Automation and Industrial Solutions
Siemens AG 2008. All rights reserved.

Declaration Name Type Description


in Parameters Enable BOOL Enable block
Work_Sequence WORD Processing sequence at the 3 stations
Stations_ready BOOL Status of the 3 processing stations
Main_Sta_Transp_Req BOOL Transport request from Main Station
Main_Sta_Transp_Stop BOOL Request stop from Main Station
Sta_1_Transp_Req BOOL Transport request from Station 1
Sta_2_Transp_Req BOOL Transport request from Station 2
Sta_3_Transp_Req BOOL Transport request from Station 3

Note
When a station requests transport using Station_x_Transp_Req, it is also a signal that it has
completed its part processing.

out Parameters Work_Seq_Error BOOL Message 'invalid work sequence specified'


Process_active BOOL A part processing is active from Start by the
Main Station until Stop by the Main Station
Sta_1_activate BOOL Activate Station 1 for part processing
Sta_2_activate BOOL Activate Station 2 for part processing
Sta_3_activate BOOL Activate Station 3 for part processing
Transp_Req_R BOOL Request transport to the RIGHT
Transp_Req_L BOOL Request transport to the LEFT

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 31 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model
Structogram for "FB_Sequence" (FB30)

SITRAIN Training for ST-PRO3


Automation and Industrial Solutions Page 32 FBs and the Multiple Instance Model

You might also like