Importance

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Abstract

A programmable controller stores and executes a directed sequencer program that responds to the status of input devices and controls a machine having actuators which move a member into a plurality of positions along a linear axis. An apparatus for programming the controller to execute the directed sequencer program comprises a manual data entry device and a monitor for displaying information to a user of the programmable controller. The programming apparatus enables the user to create a graphical behavior profile on the monitor which depicts operation of the machine when the member is in each position. The user also is able to designate whether each of the actuators is to be activated when the member is located at each of the positions, and the status of each input device when the member is located at each of the positions. A indication of one of the plurality of positions at which the member causes the controller to send a signal to the output also is displayed on the monitor. Thereafter, a compiler utilizes the information provided by the user to produce a set of files for the directed sequencer program. Each file corresponds to an operational state of the machine and contains data specifying an expected status of at least some of the input devices, a status for each output and actuator, and an input device which is to change status when a transition should occur to another operational state.

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First Claim