Is FBDK suitable for developing and implementing process control optimization problems?

This paper analyzes the possibility of using the free FBDK (Function Block Development Kit) tool for developing and implementing process control optimization problems. The evaluation of the tool is done from the perspective of a beginner user by designing a Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm. The PSO algorithm is used because of its easy implementation and robustness. Several aspects regarding FBDK's usability, availability of advanced mathematical functions, availability of documentation, debugging options and execution performance are discussed.