A formal semantics for Grafcet specifications

Abstract

This paper shows how the behavior of a model described in the specification language proposed by the IEC 60848 standard can be represented, without semantics loss, in a formal manner, by a finite state machine (FSM) with logic inputs and outputs. This contribution is illustrated on a nontrivial example; this case study points out that the duration of the construction of the equivalent FSM complies with the requirements of designers of automation systems.