How to Gain More Efficient Engineering

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Siemens AG Industry Sector

Options Make Engineering More Efficient

One important innovation is the creation of CMT variants. These are created in the editor by the corresponding identification of blocks. On setting up an instance, the user can then select an option. With the aid of options, the core function of a CMT is extended to include specific optional tasks. For example, an on-delay or optional dry-running protection can be assigned to a drive. A valve type can include the various options of feedback messages and controls, or additional variants for automatic and on-site operation. This extends the functionality of the CMTs and allows precise adaptation to the automation task in question.

If the user sets up an instance of the CMT during PLT configuration, they must thus decide on one of the stored options. Whereas such specific additional functions were once configured by manually extending a process tag, this is now done by simply selecting the appropriate option when setting up a CMT.

This represents a significant difference from most competitor systems, which often pursue a proprietary approach. In addition, these task-specific extensions are not lost when a synchronization is made between type and instance.

The use of CMT technology enables users to synchronize selectively. Blocks, circuits, connections and messages that have been added to or removed from an existing instanced CMT or have been modified can be forwarded to the derived CMTs without blocks on the instance side having to be changed or deleted. All parameters of the technological I/Os are retained in the instance. Greater standardization in the engineering and more individual freedom for the PLT personnel of the plant operating company no longer have to be mutually exclusive.

Working with options, i.e. different versions of one automation task, results in a considerably higher level of standardization and is one step toward a function-oriented working method. In the past, it was already possible to generate hundreds of automation tasks at the touch of a button in PLT engineering. The new additional options make it possible, for example, for 100 valves to be generated with one binary input, 200 valves with two binary inputs and 50 valves to be generated as an exclusive “on-site” function.

Reducing the Test Workload

During a synchronization between type and instance, they all retain their optional properties and can nevertheless be extended centrally with additional blocks or functions. This not only increases the flexibility, but the more object-oriented approach also reduces the test workload: Now the majority of automation functions can be tested by means of type-based testing, including the options, in which testing previously had to be performed individually at instance level. Thanks to the high degree of standardization, the new type concept also ensures improved bulk data engineering with the advanced engineering system that prepares data for use in the Simatic PCS 7 process control system. This has considerably reduced planning and commissioning times.

A Further Step towards Industrial Digitization

Conclusion: CMT technology supports technological and integrated engineering, and it forms the shared working basis for plant planners and PLT planners. According to the research and consulting company ARC Advisory Group, integrated data handling ensures a simplified exchange of information between the CAE and process control system, as well as improved engineering quality and safety due to lower interface losses. System-neutral and standard-compliant engineering is also a guarantee of compatibility with future developments and a further step in the direction of industrial digitization.

* The author is Marketing Manager Simatic PCS 7 and Integrated Engineering,Siemens AG, Karlsruhe/Germany.

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