Bridging the Gap: A Python-to-Structured Text Compiler with IEC 61131-3 Compliance

This paper introduces a high-level language compiler with IEC 61131–3 compliance capable of converting control function code written in Python into structured text. The Python-to-Structured Text Compiler aims to bridge the gap between modern language programming and PLC programming in industrial automation. The proposed Py2ST Compiler workflow includes parsing, transformation, code generation, and code import stages. The implementation of these phases is presented in this paper. And the compilation ability of the Py2ST Compiler is validated by a case study. Utilizing the Py2ST Compiler facilitates the development of PLC control functions within the Python environment. This capability enables the management of both IT and OT functions within a unified environment, enhancing the overall project's maintainability and reducing the development cycle.