Abstract: A flowchart-based programming and control system includes a computer with a processor, memory, and display. A device is connected to the computer and is associated with a process. A flowcharting module generates and edits flowchart source code that includes flowchart blocks and that contains logic for operating the device. First and second flowchart blocks assign an operational state of the process. A reason code module associated with the flowcharting module assigns first and second reason codes to the first and second flowchart blocks. The flowchart module compiles the flowchart source code into flowchart object code. A flowchart run-time engine module executes the flowchart object code to control the process. The flowchart object code generates the first and second reason codes during execution of the first and second flowchart blocks. A performance analysis module and a charting module record and graphically represent the operational state of the process over time.

Abstract: A machine programming and control system includes a computer including a processor, memory, a display, and a device that is associated with a process. A flowcharting module executed by the computer generates and edits a flowchart that contains action and decision blocks which define logic for operating the device to further the process. The flowcharting module allows active diagnosis objects to be associated with at least one of the action and decision blocks. The active diagnosis objects facilitate diagnosis of non-coding process problems. The active diagnosis object automatically initiates a message when the action or decision block is executed. The message includes at least one of an e-mail, a pager message, an operator alert and an alarm.

Abstract: A project organization and dissemination system for a machine programming and control system includes a project development environment that communicates with a distributed communications system. The project development environment includes project tools for designing project elements. The project tools include a control logic module that generates and edits flowchart project elements that include flowchart blocks and contain control logic for operating a device to further a process. A project archival system communicates with the distributed communications system and stores the project elements. A web enabled device communicates with the distributed communications system and allows remote access to the project elements. Other project elements include human machine interface (HMI), databases, network layout, electrical and electromechanical devices, spatial arrangement, process logic and flow, and/or facility layout and design.

Abstract: A machine programming and control system includes a computer including a processor, memory, a display and a device associated with a process. A flowcharting module executed by the computer generates and edits a flowchart that contains action and decision blocks which define logic for operating the device to further the process. The flowcharting module allows active debugging objects to be added to the flowchart. The active debugging objects provide information relating debugging of flowchart code and/or debugging of a portion of the process that is related to the flowchart code. The active debugging object includes at least one of audio, a movie clip, a link to a website, and text demonstrating the desired operation of the process. The active debugging object includes at least one of audio, a movie clip, a link to a website, and text describing correct values for control variables at a first logical point in the flowchart.

Abstract: A flowchart-based programming and control system includes a computer with a processor, memory, and a display. A device is associated with a process. A flowcharting module executed by the computer generates and edits flowchart source code that contains action and decision blocks which define logic for operating the device to further the process. An external function can be called from one of the action and decision blocks during run time. The external function is executed by an external function module which receives input parameters and generates return values. The external function is preferably a dynamic link library (DLL). Since the external functions are loaded during run time only when they are needed, they do not consume system memory until they are used.