The MathWorks automates industrial programmable control

The MathWorks has introduced Simulink PLC Coder for industrial control engineers to automatically generate IEC 61131 structured text for programmable controller devices.

Automatic code generation helps eliminate errors associated with traditional hand coding and reduces overall development and validation time.

Simulink PLC Coder generates source code in structured text format from Simulink models, Stateflow charts, and Embedded Matlab code, and then uses an integrated development environment (IDE) from an industrial automation vendor to compile the code and run it on a programmable logic controllers and programmable automation controllers commonly used to control machinery.

"Model-based design aligns closely with our Virtual Design and Production strategy which allows customers to speed time to market, reduce engineering costs and further validate machines before production," said Jason Weber, strategic alliance manager at Rockwell Automation.

"Simulink PLC Coder complements B&R Automation Studio Target for Simulink, letting our customers chose between generating structured text and C-code, depending on the needs of their application," stated Philipp Wallner, Mechatronics Technologies lead developer at B&R Industrial Automation.

Simulink PLC Coder lists for $10,000.