Systems and methods for modeling interdependencies in batch processes

An automation system for a batch process, comprising:

• a personal computer, comprising a batch management system comprising a hierarchical sequence of one or more steps, wherein the sequence comprises an input parameter expression and an output parameter expression, wherein the input parameter expression is based at least in part on a subscription to a data reference residing at or above the step of the batch management system where the input parameter expression resides, wherein the input parameter expression is configured to update continuously, and wherein the output parameter expression is configured to update based on a trigger;
• a programmable logic controller, comprising an equipment control system comprising a hierarchy of one or more levels;
• and
• a data transfer link between the one or more steps of the batch management system and the one or more levels of the equipment control system.

A non-transitory computer readable storage medium, comprising:

• computer code disposed on the computer readable storage medium, wherein the code comprises instructions for automating a batch process, the instructions comprising:
• instructions for performing a hierarchical sequence of one or more steps, wherein the sequence comprises an input parameter expression and an output parameter expression, wherein the input parameter expression is based at least in part on a subscription to a data reference residing at or above the step of the hierarchical sequence where the input parameter expression resides, wherein the input parameter expression is configured to update continuously, and wherein the output parameter expression is configured to update based on a trigger;
• instructions for performing one or more levels of an equipment control system;
• and
• instructions for transferring data between the one or more steps of the hierarchical sequence and the one or more levels of the equipment control system.