This section only applies to process manufacturer who have automated their system with Variobatch.

Batch plans are more complex configuration rules for planning workflow nodes (workflow nodes that call other sub-workflows). You define batch plans using the control dialog in the Batch tab. You open the control dialog using the context menu on the selected planning workflow node in the diagram.

The dialog is divided into two parts: on the left side there is the batch plan list (1) and on the right side the detailed information (3) of the selected batch plan.

Multiple batch plans can be entered. These are processed in turn if they have been set to the "automatic start"-state via the status field. 

 
Batch-Status

1. New
2. Automatic start: Batch plan may be processed by the active planning workflow node.
3. In Process: Batch plan is currently active and batches/sub-workflows have been started.
4. Completed: All presets have been processed and no batch is active that has been started for this batch plan.
5. Canceled: Manual intervention of the operator so that no new subworkflows can be started. Batches that have already started are processed to the end.

1. Press the "New Batchplan entry" button (2). A new batch plan line is added.
2. Select the batch mode (3):
   • "Use target batch count": Enter the batch count and batch size to be produced.
   • "Use from/to values": Same function as "Use target batch count". However, the sequential numbering is given by you.
   • "Use total size": The system calculates how many batches have to be generated. However, this depends on the implementation of the planning workflow class you are using. By default, only one large batch is started with the total size you specified.
3. Select the destinations in the list (4) from where you want to transport the finished product (click check box). Use the sequence column to control the order in which the targets are controlled. Enter only positive numbers that can start at a 0. Some types of forwarding nodes prevent an already half-filled container from being controlled by the automatic. To work around this logic, enter the number "-1" as the order. 
   For complex factories that have long transport routes and branching possibilities, you can use the button "set route"/"view route" to specify rules for automatic routing or to specify a specific route.
4. Save your changes.
5. Press the "Start Batch" button (5) to start the production.

The workflow is activated with the start. Active workflows can be monitored and controlled through process control.