Multi-mode editor for configuring process control blocks including both logical functions and arithmetic computations

Abstract

A multi-editing mode LOGIC BLOCK object editor is disclosed for creating and modifying LOGIC BLOCK objects that are incorporated into control strategies for process control systems (both distributed and discrete). The editor includes an RPN text editing mode wherein logic incorporated into a LOGIC BLOCK is represented by a list of text instructions. The editor also includes a graphical function block diagram editing mode wherein LOGIC BLOCK logic is defined via instruction shapes dragged/dropped from a pallet and connected via GUI line connection actions by a user. The editor supports automated transitioning between the text and graphics modes wherein conversion of text-to-graphics and graphics-to-text is performed without user intervention. Furthermore, synchronization procedures are performed when LOGIC BLOCK objects are opened in the editor and when transitioning between editing modes to track and/or maintain synchronous status between graphical and text representations of LOGIC BLOCK logic.