I am new to this and it seems a bit challenging for me, even though it may actually be quite simple. In Easysoft (version 7 or 8), I am working on a system where a float switch (I1) needs to alternate between activating two pumps (Q1 or Q2). Another float switch (I2) is used to deactivate the pump. Additionally, there is a leak detector integrated into the system. I believe I can handle that part. I am considering using a counter that increments each time I1 is triggered, resetting back to 1 after reaching 2, in order to determine which pump should be activated. However, I am struggling to understand how counters function. Is there a more straightforward approach to achieve this?
Basic counters, such as the ones described here, work by incrementing when the input signal, often referred to as "enable," switches from false to true. The counter only increments on this transition and will not continue counting if the input signal remains true. By comparing the counter value to either 1 or 2, you can determine which pump to activate. Alternatively, there is a method that does not involve using a counter, which is suitable for those without Easysoft software. It is essential to note that this method may require pulse bits, which are not available in all software versions. Additionally, timers can be used to debounce level controls, which can prevent issues such as product "sloshing" when pumps are started or stopped.
Understanding the internal workings of counters is crucial. Some counters have a discrete (boolean) input pin known as a Reset bit. By setting the preset (PV) input pin to 2 and linking the counter's "done" bit to the Reset pin, the counter will increment from 0 to 1, then from 1 to 2 with each rising edge. However, once the count reaches 2, the counter will reset back to 0. This concept is commonly used in programming applications, like the Level_Latch in@parky's popular program.
Thank you so much for your assistance! I've spent hours working on this response and every time I attempted to ask more questions, a new idea would come to mind and I would go on a search to find the information I needed. I am almost finished with the program, just needing to include the off/auto switches. In my previous attempts, I have finally figured out how to use the latching coil by selecting the "M-Marker" from a drop-down menu instead of the "N-Marker" as shown in past versions. Understanding how the counters work and utilizing a comparator to send a signal has been a great help, although I am still facing some challenges with resetting the counter. One of the issues I encountered is the difficulty in translating information from other programs into Easysoft. Additionally, I have been unable to locate a Pulse function in Easysoft, or it may be labeled differently.
You may come across a oneshot (ONS) in some software, which can be identified by a contact with an UP or down arrow. These oneshots can also be customized as per your requirements. Attached are some examples that can be utilized for reference. In the first rung, a oneshot contact only triggers on a rising edge for one scan. The second rung operates on the same principle but on a falling edge. The third example shows how you can create your own oneshot that triggers on a rising edge. Explore these options to optimize your programming efficiency.
Here are three out of four programming methods commonly used with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), the fourth being "Structured Text" where the program is written in a language like C+. I am exploring options like using an "impulse relay," although I need more time to fully understand its capabilities. Thank you for all the assistance! In case you are interested, I found a workaround to make the pumps alternate, though it may not be the most elegant solution. Unfortunately, the program details, including alarms, hand/off/auto switching, and the block diagrams for timers, counters, and comparators, are not fully displayed.
You could definitely use a counter to alternate between your pumps, but there might be a simpler way to achieve this too. Try using a flip-flop logic. Each time your float switch triggers, the state of the flip-flop changes, so you don't need to worry about rolling over counters or dealing with reset. Your activating logic for the pump simply checks the state of the flip-flop. If it's true, it triggers Q1, if it's false, it triggers Q2. This could be a much more streamlined approach to your situation.
Welcome to the forum! What you're proposing could certainly work, but counters in programming can indeed be a bit tricky when you're starting out. An alternative you could consider is the use of a toggle/flip-flop mechanism instead. It revolves around the same principle as the counter, but might be easier to comprehend. Basically, each time your float switch (I1) gets activated, you "flip" the state of a boolean variable (e.g., "IsPump1Active") from its present state to the opposite. When I1 is triggered, if "IsPump1Active" is true, you switch on Q2 and set "IsPump1Active" to false, and vice versa. Then, when I2 is activated, you just turn off whichever pump is running. This could be a simpler way to manage the system for you.
Welcome to the forum! Your approach with the counter definitely makes sense for alternating between the two pumps, but if you're looking for something simpler, you might consider using a toggle bit or a boolean flag that flips each time I1 is triggered. This way, you can easily switch between activating Q1 and Q2 without needing to manage a counter. Just set your toggle (e.g., a 'PumpToggle' variable) to true for Q1 and false for Q2, and switch it every time the float switch activates. It can simplify your logic and make things more intuitive. Good luck with your project, and don't hesitate to ask if you have more questions!
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Answer: Answer: You can use a counter that increments each time the float switch (I1) is triggered, resetting back to 1 after reaching 2, to determine which pump should be activated.
Answer: Answer: While using a counter is one approach, there may be alternative methods to achieve the desired pump activation based on float switch triggers in Easysoft. It's recommended to explore other logic functions within the software that could simplify the process.
Answer: Answer: To integrate a leak detector into the system along with controlling the pumps based on float switch triggers, you can utilize the logic and programming capabilities of Easysoft to create a comprehensive control system. Consulting the software's documentation or seeking online tutorials may provide additional guidance.
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