An example VtHMI setup and supporting files (one picture file and two performance maps) are available for download here. The zip file needs to be extracted before opening the .vth file. The size of the .vth setup file is only 716 KB, and the compressed file containing everything for this project is 59 KB!
I have been installing Moxa MPC-2120-E4T 12-inch panel PCs to replace Allen Bradley 6181X units. These are a relatively new fan-less design that are very affordable (~$3k with Windows 10 OS).
I have been installing Moxa MPC-2120-E4T 12-inch panel PCs to replace Allen Bradley 6181X units. These are a relatively new fan-less design that are very affordable (~$3k with Windows 10 OS).
Variables Editor:
The first step in creating a new project is to define the variables.
Variables are organized by "Data Sets", in which the mode and path of communication, and variable data types are defined. VtHMI allows mixed mode communication to any number of paths. It is possible to simultaneously communicate to one machine over OPC, another over Logix direct, and another over Modbus TCP. Each Data Set has its own table of Variables. In the figure below the "Analogs" data set is currently selected and the Variables define for this set are shown to the right.
The "Data Type" is used to describe the "function" of the variables. For example, Analog types would be read only and used for various indicators and graph controls. Status types are also read only and used for discrete indicator types of controls. Alarm and Shutdown data types are used for alarm banner and log controls. Tuneable and Control Bit data types are read/write and used for operator set points and command bits.
Variables can be cut and pasted between other Windows applications and added by drag/drop from Allen Bradley ".L5X" control logic files.
The first step in creating a new project is to define the variables.
Variables are organized by "Data Sets", in which the mode and path of communication, and variable data types are defined. VtHMI allows mixed mode communication to any number of paths. It is possible to simultaneously communicate to one machine over OPC, another over Logix direct, and another over Modbus TCP. Each Data Set has its own table of Variables. In the figure below the "Analogs" data set is currently selected and the Variables define for this set are shown to the right.
The "Data Type" is used to describe the "function" of the variables. For example, Analog types would be read only and used for various indicators and graph controls. Status types are also read only and used for discrete indicator types of controls. Alarm and Shutdown data types are used for alarm banner and log controls. Tuneable and Control Bit data types are read/write and used for operator set points and command bits.
Variables can be cut and pasted between other Windows applications and added by drag/drop from Allen Bradley ".L5X" control logic files.
Controls Editor:
Controls are created and edited by a drag and drop editor. A floating window shows controls available to add, properties of the currently selected control(s) (a control valve is currently selected in the image below) and a tree view of the variables defined in the Variable Editor.
A wide range of controls are currently defined, and more will be added over time. Controls can be cut/copy/pasted between multiple instances of VtHMI.
