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Technology

Field Logic Controller

Field Logic Controllers bring control logic directly to the field level and enable decentralized processing of signals and data in machines and systems.

ARGEE/Field Logic Controller

Quick read

Field logic controllers are decentralized control units at the field level and fall into the category of logic and automation solutions for industrial machines and systems. TURCK field logic controllers can control applications independently or preprocess data and exchange it with higher-level controllers. TURCK uses the free ARGEE programming environment for Field Logic Controllers, which extends block I/O devices into controllable units. ARGEE is based on HTML5 and JavaScript and enables programming without software installation, even via mobile end devices. The multiprotocol block I/Os TBEN-L, TBEN-S, BL compact, and FEN20 can be used as field logic controllers with ARGEE. ARGEE supports data exchange via PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, and Modbus TCP. ARGEE Flow supports Boolean logic, signal linkages, timers, and counters, while ARGEE PRO additionally enables arithmetic operations, internal variables, and state sequences.

What are Field Logic Controllers (FLC)?

Field Logic Controllers are small, decentralized units used to control industrial machines and systems. TURCK’s FLC technology brings logic to the field level. The devices can control applications independently or preprocess specific data and exchange it with higher-level controllers.

What is ARGEE?

ARGEE is TURCK’s simple and free programming environment. It turns TURCK’s block I/O devices into Field Logic Controllers. ARGEE is based on HTML5 and JavaScript and allows users to program conditions and actions in the simplest way possible without installing any software—even in the field using mobile end devices. By using ARGEE, TURCK’s multiprotocol block I/Os can also be used as standalone logic controllers. ARGEE will not completely replace every PLC, but the engineering software opens up new possibilities in control technology.

With ARGEE Flow, the FLCs can…

... can be configured using Boolean logic

… Perform logical operations on input and output signals

… use up to two timers and counters

… communicate with a PLC

 

With ARGEE PRO, the FLCs can…

… perform arithmetic operations

…use numerous internal variables, timers, and counters with a total size of up to 6 kB

… exchange larger amounts of data using a PLC

… Execute IF conditions and state sequences

Benefits

Field Logic Controllers in Practice: Added Value for Your Application

Efficient and robust solutions for real-world applications—designed for demanding operating conditions and proven in everyday industrial use.

Field Logic Controllers at TURCK: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Field Logic Controller, and what is it used for?

A Field Logic Controller is a decentralized control unit for industrial machines and systems. Field Logic Controllers from TURCK bring logic directly to the field level. The devices can control applications independently or preprocess data and exchange it with higher-level controllers. This allows control tasks to be executed directly on distributed automation components.

2. Which TURCK products can be used as Field Logic Controllers?

At TURCK, Field Logic Controllers can be implemented on the TBEN-L, TBEN-S, BL compact, and FEN20 block I/O devices. The free ARGEE programming environment extends these devices with control functions. As a result, the multiprotocol block I/O devices mentioned above can perform logic tasks at the field level in addition to their I/O functions.

3. What is ARGEE, and what role does ARGEE play in Field Logic Controller applications?

ARGEE is TURCK's free programming environment for Field Logic Controllers. ARGEE is based on HTML5 and JavaScript and allows programming without installing local software. The environment transforms compatible block I/O devices into controllable units and opens up additional possibilities for decentralized automation concepts at the field level.

4. What protocols does a TURCK Field Logic Controller support for communication with PLC systems?

TURCK's Field Logic Controllers support data exchange with higher-level controllers via PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, and Modbus TCP. ARGEE can exchange and process data over these networks. This makes the devices suitable for both decentralized logic processing and signal preprocessing prior to transfer to a PLC.

5. What programming options does ARGEE Flow offer for Field Logic Controllers?

ARGEE Flow offers functions for typical logic tasks in Field Logic Controller applications. Users can apply Boolean logic, logically combine input and output signals, use up to two timers and counters, and communicate with a PLC. These functions are designed for applications with a manageable scope of logic at the field level.

6. What advanced features does ARGEE PRO offer for Field Logic Controllers?

ARGEE PRO expands the functionality of Field Logic Controller applications. Users can perform arithmetic operations, use internal variables as well as additional timers and counters, and exchange more extensive data with a PLC. In addition, ARGEE PRO supports IF conditions and the execution of state sequences.

7. How can Field Logic Controllers be installed and used without additional software?

Field Logic Controllers with ARGEE do not require a separate software installation. ARGEE is based on the HTML5 web standard and can be used with HTML5-compatible browsers such as Chrome or Firefox. Programming and operation are therefore possible on PCs or tablets. Mobile end devices can also be used to access the environment.

8. How do Field Logic Controllers support data processing in Industry 4.0 applications?

Field Logic Controllers add control intelligence to compatible block I/O devices for Industry 4.0 applications. According to TURCK, the devices support the key technologies Ethernet, IO-Link, and RFID. This enables data to be processed at the field level and made available for further automation tasks.

9. What costs or license fees are associated with using a Field Logic Controller with ARGEE?

According to the source, there are no licensing fees for using ARGEE. TURCK provides the programming environment for the TBEN-L, TBEN-S, BL compact, and FEN20 block I/O modules free of charge. The source code does not describe any additional licensing models or paid extensions.

10. In what practical applications can a Field Logic Controller be used?

Field Logic Controllers are suitable for decentralized control and signal processing tasks in industrial machines and systems. One example of their use is the preprocessing of signals in a production facility before data is transmitted to a higher-level PLC. Another example is the implementation of decentralized logic functions directly on field devices within an automation architecture.