PLC Programming - Advanced Object Oriented Programming (OOP)

What you'll learn
Implement core CoDeSys OOP features like Methods, Properties, and Access Specifiers to create well-encapsulated Function Blocks.
Design and utilize Inheritance (EXTENDS, ABSTRACT, SUPER) and Interfaces (IMPLEMENTS) to build flexible, reusable, and maintainable Function Block hierarchies.
Apply Polymorphism using Interface variables (IF 0) and runtime checks (__QUERY...) to create decoupled and adaptable automation logic.
Safely and effectively use Pointers (POINTER TO) and References (REFERENCE TO) in CoDeSys, understanding critical validity checks.
Apply key OOP Design Patterns (State, Command, Observer) to solve common automation software challenges.
Evaluate when and how to appropriately apply OOP principles and patterns in PLC projects, avoiding common pitfalls like over-engineering.
Requirements
Solid understanding of fundamental PLC programming concepts (variables, data types, logic, control flow).
Practical experience programming PLCs using Structured Text (ST) within the CoDeSys V3 development environment (IDE navigation, creating basic POUs, downloading, going online/debugging).
Experience creating and using standard Function Blocks (FBs) in CoDeSys.
No prior Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) knowledge is required - We will build from your existing PLC programming foundation.
Description
Tired of wrestling with complex PLC code that's hard to maintain and reuse? Ready to move beyond basic Function Blocks and unlock the full potential of modern PLC programming?This comprehensive course is your guide to mastering Advanced Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) techniques specifically within the CoDeSys V3 environment (IEC 61131-3). Designed for experienced PLC programmers familiar with Structured Text (ST) and standard Function Blocks, this course bridges the gap between traditional methods and powerful OOP principles.This course is designed for experienced PLC programmers comfortable with Structured Text (ST) and standard Function Blocks. If you are new to PLC programming or need a stronger foundation in structured programming concepts before tackling advanced OOP, I highly recommend checking out my other courses first: "PLC Programming - Learn the Basics with CoDeSys" for beginners, and "PLC Programming - Structured Programming and Design Patterns" for intermediate concepts.We'll start by understanding why OOP matters in automation, addressing common concerns and demonstrating its benefits for managing complexity. Then, we dive deep into the practical application of CoDeSys OOP features:Enhance your Function Blocks: Learn to create cleaner, more intuitive code using Methods, Properties, and control visibility with Access Specifiers. Understand the crucial role of the THIS pointer.Master Memory Management: Gain confidence using Pointers (POINTER TO, ADR, ^) and References (REFERENCE TO, REF=), learning their syntax, applications, and essential safety checks ( 0, __ISVALIDREF) vital for reliable PLC code.Build Reusable Hierarchies: Explore Inheritance (EXTENDS) to create specialized FBs based on common code. Learn to Override methods, leverage the SUPER pointer, and utilize ABSTRACT classes to define robust templates.Achieve True Flexibility: Discover Interfaces (INTERFACE, IMPLEMENTS) to define capability contracts and unlock Polymorphism. Learn how to write decoupled code that interacts with diverse objects uniformly using Interface Variables and runtime checks (__QUERY...).Apply Practical Knowledge: Learn OOP Design Patterns adapted for automation (State, Command, Observer, adapted Factory), master Debugging techniques specific to OOP structures in CoDeSys, and understand crucial Best Practices - including when not to use OOP and how to refactor legacy code using the Wrapper pattern.Throughout the course, we use practical examples rooted in automation scenarios (like controlling drives) and provide exercises to solidify your understanding.Throughout the course, we use practical examples rooted in automation scenarios (like controlling drives) and provide exercises to solidify your understanding. To ensure compatibility with the provided exercise projects, it is advised that students install CoDeSys Development System V3.5 SP19 Patch 5.By the end of this course, you won't just know about OOP; you'll be able to confidently design, implement, and maintain complex, scalable, reusable, and highly maintainable PLC applications using advanced OOP techniques in CoDeSys V3.Enroll today and elevate your PLC programming skills to the next level
Who this course is for
PLC Programmers and Automation Engineers currently working with CoDeSys V3 based systems (e.g., Beckhoff, Wago, Schneider Electric, Festo, Bosch Rexroth, etc.).
Developers experienced with IEC 61131-3 languages (especially Structured Text) and standard Function Blocks.
Engineers facing challenges with complex code, code reuse, or maintainability in large PLC projects.
Programmers wanting to leverage modern software engineering practices within the PLC environment.
Those seeking a deep, practical understanding of Methods, Properties, Inheritance, Interfaces, and Polymorphism in CoDeSys.
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