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Using Of Function Blocks

Function Block is a programming block used in industrial automation systems. A function block is a programming element designed in the form of a block with input and output connection points that can be connected to each other. Functional blocks are particularly useful for programming complex operations.

  • AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle): Stands for Automated Guided Vehicle and is especially used in industrial settings for material handling and transportation. AGVs are autonomous vehicles that navigate through a facility using various sensors, markers, and maps.

  • CANopen: CANopen is a communication protocol and device profile specification for embedded systems used in automation, medical equipment, transportation, and other industrial applications. It is based on the CAN (Controller Area Network) protocol, which enables communication between microcontrollers and devices.

  • Channels: Channels refer to a way of organizing and grouping data within a program. Channels can be used to manage data flow and communication between different parts of a program or between different programs.

  • Conditional: Conditionals are programming constructs used to make decisions based on a certain condition. For example, an “if-else” statement is a type of conditional that allows a program to execute different code blocks depending on whether a certain condition is met.

  • Displays: Displays refer to the visual output of a program, such as on a type of display device.

  • Input: Input refers to the data or information that a program receives from the user or from other sources.

  • Language: Language refers to the programming language used to write a program. Each programming language has its own syntax, rules, and features.

  • Logic: Logic refers to the way that a program processes information and makes decisions based on that information. This can involve boolean logic (true/false statements), conditional statements, and other constructs.

  • Math: Math refers to the mathematical functions and operations used in a program, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

  • Modbus: Modbus is a communication protocol used in industrial automation and other applications. It enables communication between devices connected to a network using a master-slave architecture.

  • Output: Output refers to the data or information that a program sends to the user or to other devices or systems.

  • Timer/Counters: Timer/Counters are programming constructs used to keep track of time or to count certain events or operations. These constructs are commonly used in industrial automation and other applications.

  • Types: Types refer to the different types of data that a program can work with, such as numbers, strings, or boolean values.

- Utilities: Utilities refer to various tools and functions used to perform specific tasks within a program or operating system. This can include file management, system maintenance, and other tasks.

How To Use Function Blocks

  1. The function blocks in the ide are located in the toolbox tab of the collapsible panel on the left in the project workspace.
  2. If you want to use a block, click on the header where the block is located, and select the appropriate function block and drag it to the appropriate place in the workspace, either on the device or to the preferred location.
  3. After dragging a block, when you hover over input or output nodes to connect it with other blocks, you will see the color of the connectable nodes change. Select the suitable one for your purpose, continue holding down the left mouse button over that node, drag the cursor, and release the button.
  4. As a result of these operations, the function block will be ready to use.

Sample Usage

See Also