Object-oriented programmable industrial controller with distributed interface architecture

An object-oriented controller in which control functionality is encapsulated in objects that may be rendered accessible to a remotely located computer, the controller comprising:

• a. an object manager for storing a plurality of obiects corresponding to controlled physical entities, each object specifying at least one control function associated with the entity and including, for each function:
• i. at least one executable procedure for performing an action associated with the control function;
• and
• ii. at least one executable procedure for displaying information associated with the control function, the at least one procedure providing display instructions executable by the remotely located computer and causing display thereon of the information in a predetermined format, wherein
• iii. the procedures are distinct and subject to independent modification;
• b. a performance engine for causing performance of the actions in accordance with the procedures associated therewith;
• and
• c. a communication module facilitating access to the display procedure by the remotely located computer, such access comprising:
• i. transfer of the display instructions to the remotely located computer upon request;
• and
• ii. modification of the display procedure in accordance with commands transmitted by the remotely located computer.