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This paper describes a software architecture which supports the design of hierarchical controllers that provide facilities for adaptation, supervision and task planning. It details how this form of functional hierarchy differs from the structural hierarchy also inherent within a complex control system. Then, both forms of hierarchy are combined in a single design notation and development methodology. The system utilises intelligent control techniques (neuro-fuzzy and genetic optimisation) for controlling a cryogenic plant used for superconductor testing by cooling the test samples to temperatures below 1008K. The system supports the design of a hierarchical controller that provides facilities for adaptation, supervision and task planning. Simulation results are presented.

There have been significant changes in computer technology since the authors of this paper started working in APL in 1969. From our point of view the most exciting recent event has been the development of APL for use with micro computers.The increasing power of low cost micros in combination with a good communication facility between the micro and the time sharing main frame make it possible to use micros for distributive processing in APL systems.This paper describes how the authors altered the system design of an existing time sharing APL system to include a micro, and the type of communications facilities which had to be developed for the micro so that no change in data entry procedure was observed by the operators of this system.

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