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 description objects to be added to the flowchart. The active description objects provide information relating documentation of the process, maintenance of said device, control variables and the flowchart.

Abstract: A system for cloning input/output (I/O) devices connected to a network hosting an industrial control system includes a first network coupled to a second network. A first plurality of I/O devices are connected to the first network. A second plurality of I/O devices are connected to the second network. A master computer is coupled to one of the first and second networks and includes control software with an object oriented model for defining attributes and operations of the I/O devices on the first network to allow cloning of the I/O devices onto the second network. The object oriented model includes a hierarchical class structure with inheritance. The hierarchical class structure includes a device class and a plurality of device types. The object oriented model includes at least one class level hierarchically below the device class. Devices instantiated at a class level inherit the attributes or operations of the class level.