Definitions
Message Type
A Message Type is a classification system that defines how a specific message should be interpreted and processed within the PLC diagnostic system. It contains essential metadata about the message, including:
- A unique identifier (ID) for system reference
- A descriptive label explaining the message's purpose
- Category classification for grouping similar messages
- Visual display properties (colors, formatting)
- Associated downtime type (if applicable)
- Related message types (e.g., start/stop pairs)
Key Attributes
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| ID | Unique numerical identifier |
| Description | Human-readable explanation of the message type |
| Category | Broader classification group |
| Downtime Type | Associated downtime classification (if applicable) |
| End Message Type | Reference to the message type that marks the end of this event |
Example Message Types
Intake Failed to Retract - Timed Out
Category: Error
Downtime Type: Equipment
Description: Indicates that the intake mechanism failed to return to its starting position within the expected time frame.
Machine Running - Stop Requested
Category: Information
Downtime Type: Operator
Description: Indicates that an operator has initiated a stop sequence while the machine is running.
Screen Battery Low - Change Battery
Category: Warning
Downtime Type: None
Description: Warning message indicating that the display screen's battery needs replacement.
Output Scale Pan Lifted - Hay underneath
Category: Warning
Downtime Type: IdlingAndMinorStops
Description: Indicates that the output scale's accuracy is compromised due to material interference.
Tucker at more than one position - Error
Category: Error
Downtime Type: Equipment
Description: Critical error indicating that the tucker mechanism is reporting multiple positions simultaneously, suggesting a sensor malfunction.
Message Category
A Message Category is a high-level classification system used to group related Message Types together. Categories help organize messages by their general purpose or area of concern within the system.
Standard Categories
Information
General informational messages about normal system operation, status updates, and non-critical notifications.
Warning
Messages indicating potential issues or conditions that require attention but don't immediately affect operation.
Error
Critical messages about system faults, failures, or conditions that require immediate attention.
Statistics
Messages containing performance data, counters, and other numerical measurements of system operation.
Operator Stoppage Reason
Messages specifically related to operator-initiated stops and their associated reasons.
Monitor
Messages used for continuous monitoring of system parameters and conditions.
Diagnostic
Detailed technical messages used for system diagnosis, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
Key Attributes
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| ID | Unique identifier for the category |
| Name | Human-readable category name |
| Description | Detailed explanation of what the category represents |
| Default Colors | Standard visual styling applied to messages in this category |
Item Type
An Item Type defines a specific data point or measurement that can be included within a message. Each Item Type represents a distinct piece of information that the system can track, measure, or record.
Key Attributes
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| ID | Unique identifier for the item type |
| Name | Human-readable name describing the data point |
| Data Type | The type of data this item represents (e.g., integer, float, string) |
| Unit | The unit of measurement, if applicable (e.g., kg, seconds, count) |
Example Item Types
Shift Bale Counter
Data Type: Integer
Unit: Count
Description: Tracks the number of bales processed during a shift.
Operator ID
Data Type: String
Unit: N/A
Description: Unique identifier for the operator currently running the machine.
Input Bale Weight
Data Type: Float
Unit: Kilograms
Description: Weight measurement of incoming bales before processing.
Strapper Cycle Time
Data Type: Float
Unit: Seconds
Description: Time taken to complete one strapping cycle.
Total Shift Weight
Data Type: Float
Unit: Kilograms
Description: Cumulative weight of all processed bales during a shift.
Usage in Messages
Item Types are used within messages to provide specific data points about the system's operation. A single message can contain multiple items, each representing different measurements or values relevant to the event being reported.