In the world of industrial automation, CODESYS is a popular software tool used by engineers for developing PLC programs. In a previous video, we discussed the advantages of using CODESYS for developing visualizations and explored the available options for deploying these visualizations.
Now, let’s dive deeper into the topic and learn how to use HMI (Human Machine Interface) interfaces with CODESYS to interact with a control application.
Building a Visualization in CODESYS
To demonstrate the process, I have created a sample control application and visualization in CODESYS. This visualization consists of static elements, status indicators, and controls.
Static elements provide the structure and branding for the visualization. They include images, rectangles, labels, lines, polygons, tabs, and group boxes. These elements do not change while the visualization is running and provide a visual foundation for the HMI interface.
Status indicators, on the other hand, are dynamic elements whose appearance can change based on the values of associated variables. Examples of status indicators include lamps, bar displays, traces, trends, and meters. These elements allow engineers to visualize the value of a variable in real-time or over a period of time.
Controls play a crucial role in allowing operators to modify the value of variables in a running control application. CODESYS offers various controls such as buttons, radio buttons, text fields, sliders, and checkboxes. With these controls, operators can interact with the application and directly affect the variables’ values.
How to Use HMI Interfaces in CODESYS
Let’s take a closer look at how HMI interfaces are used in CODESYS. In our sample visualization, we have incorporated two buttons: the Stop Conveyor button and the Set Motor Runtime button.
The Stop Conveyor button is configured to write the value “True” to a variable in the control application. When pressed, this button stops a motor from running. On the other hand, the Set Motor Runtime button displays a numeric input control when clicked, allowing the operator to specify a value to write to a variable in the application.
By leveraging these HMI interfaces, operators have a user-friendly way to control the behavior of the control application in real-time. It enhances the overall efficiency and flexibility of the industrial processes.
FAQs
Q: What are static elements in a CODESYS visualization?
A: Static elements in CODESYS visualizations are fixed elements that provide structure and branding. They include images, rectangles, labels, lines, polygons, tabs, and group boxes.
Q: What are status indicators in a CODESYS visualization?
A: Status indicators in CODESYS visualizations are dynamic elements that change their appearance based on the values of associated variables. They include lamps, bar displays, traces, trends, and meters.
Q: What are controls in a CODESYS visualization?
A: Controls in CODESYS visualizations allow operators to modify the value of variables in a running control application. They include buttons, radio buttons, text fields, sliders, and checkboxes.
Conclusion
Developing visualizations in CODESYS is a crucial skill for PLC programmers. These visualizations provide operators with a clear understanding of the process and enable them to interact with the control application effectively.
In this article, we explored the basics of using CODESYS with HMI interfaces. We discussed static elements, status indicators, and controls, which are essential components of a CODESYS visualization. By leveraging these elements, engineers can create powerful visualizations that enhance the efficiency of industrial processes.
If you’re interested in deepening your knowledge of CODESYS visualizations, I highly recommend checking out the RealPars course “CODESYS 2 Introduction to Visualization.” It offers a step-by-step guide to developing visualizations using CODESYS. You can find the course here.
Happy coding!
