Automatic sequence in S7

I have a job utilising an S7 400 plc which requires a no of automatic sequences to occur.I have some nice timing diagrams from the customer but I am a little unsure of the best way to approach a sequence in S7, weather the sequence steps are based on a counter value, values in a data register or function block, any ideas would be very much appreciated.

Siemens can supply Graph 7 which integrates into Step7. Graph 7 allows you to define your sequence steps/transitions etc and you can view them graphically during test/debug. Note that the end customer will need Graph 7 if they need to investigate/tune any sequences !

Alternatively you could implement the sequence using ladder logic and use a DB to store the steps/actions etc. (I prefer this method for the limited sequence work I have done as is does not rely on the customer needing Graph 7)

I always use the SR approach to translate from Grafcet (or SFC, or Graph) to a ladder program. Every step is a SR memory. The S is determined by the previous step AND the transition conditions, the R is determined by the next step. Works like charm on every PLC, even if the brand never heard about Graph.

Once you're used to it, it's fairly simple to adapt the same principle to relay logic or even pneumatic sequencers.

Kind regards,