Structuring the application software for real-time process control

An approach for structuring the application software for real-time process control is described. The approach is based on abstract data types and object-oriented design methodology. The data and software structures are considered in detail. The approach is illustrated by the design of a complex real-time system for controlling the sterilization process in the foodstuff industry. This approach allows the development of task templates instead of actual tasks; the templates can be instantiated according to the target requirements. It allows addition and removal of control loops, changing some of the controlling algorithms, and changing the controlling parameters. It decreases the number of application tasks, thus reducing the overhead needed for task scheduling, switching, and coordinating