Embedded language interpretation for configuration of fixturing applications

摘要

A structure and method is disclosed for modifying the operation of a fixturing device without the requirement to change the fixture's firmware or control software. The method (500) uses a macro language that describes the operation of the fixture (430), and control software (420) that maps hardware resources to logical descriptors. The hardware state of the fixture is monitored and changes in state are logged as events (540, 550). The fixture firmware responds to these events by autonomously triggering the execution of a pre-stored macro (560). This event-driven approach provides the flexibility to operate the fixture without the use of controlling software. It is also possible to trigger the execution of a macro through the use of one or more commands external to the fixturing device. <IMAGE>