Packaging library frees programmers from hardware ties

The OMAC Packaging Workgroup has released the first version of its Packaging Applications Library, called PackAL, containing standard function blocks for use in packaging machinery applications. The function blocks, which define interfaces and behaviours, are hardware-independent, providing a common look-and-feel to packaging programs, even when running on hardware from different automation suppliers. This is expected to cut training costs and to make maintenance and troubleshooting easier.

The library, developed by OMAC`s PackSoft sub-committee, contains generic machine functions, state model functions and communications functions. It also defines a standard implementation of OMAC`s PackML state model for machine behaviour and state signalling.

The functions can be programmed in any language, including those specified in IEC 61131-3. The functions support PLCopen`s motion control blocks. The first field trials using the new library are expected to be get underway later this year.

The PackAL library can be downloaded from OMAC`s Web site.