Securing single user operation in Simatic WinCC
In a process plant there may be areas where it is required to be operated by only one operator at a time. Such locking mechanism can be performed using scripting in WinCC.
Method of operation
Swappcon ApS has developed a WinCC script that can be used on both Distributed- and MultiUser systems. In combination with sensible area user management in WinCC, it can be ensured that only one operator at a time has the right to operate parts of the process/area.
When one operator is logged in with user credentials that grant operating rights to the specific process area, further use of the same credentials in WinCC will be blocked. If another operator, via another client PC, tries to log in with the same credentials to gain access to the area, the login will be blocked and an information text will be displayed in a dialog box. The text contains information about which PC in the network currently has the operating right:
When the operator with the operating right logs off, the specific process area will be released, and it will then again be possible for other operators to log on and get the operating right.
A use case
On a ship or a drilling platform, ballast tanks are used as a stabilizer. It is very important for the vessel's safety that these ballast tanks are correctly adjusted in terms of water quantity and distribution. The operation of the ballast tanks will therefore be an obvious area to limit to single user operation. Thus it is avoided that two or more simultaneous operators try to command in the vital process area.
Software requirements
- The script is installed and executed as a global script on the WinCC Server.
More info
For further information on how it works and price, please contact Swappcon ApS by email: cgr@swappcon.dk, mobile: +45 29678332.