Siemens expands simulation platform to improve engineering quality and productivity

In Version 8.1, Siemens has expanded its Simit simulation platform to include the virtual commissioning of automation solutions. New functions and wizards increase flexibility and reduce simulation design efforts.

The new Simit Virtual Controller V3.0 makes it possible to emulate the Simatic S7-300, S7-400 and S7-410 controllers. This enables test and training setups of all sizes to be implemented without requiring hardware. The software helps users to improve the engineering quality and further increase the safety and productivity of process plants by training DCS operators optimally (Operator Training System).

With the new version of the simulation framework, which can be used in a wide range of industries, Siemens has taken another step toward merging the virtual and real worlds.

Version 8.1 of the Simit Simulation Framework provides new functions to increase flexibility and integrate the new Simit Virtual Controller V3.0. This enables users to easily configure virtual Simatic S7-300 and S7-400 controllers, as well as the S7-410 controllers specifically introduced for the process industry, and connect them to the simulation model.

An unlimited number of virtual controllers can be integrated into the simulation framework and distributed on different computers. This enables even large automation projects to be fully emulated. The automation program download into the virtual controller is realized as usual for real controllers from the Simatic PCS 7 or STEP7 Engineering.

The simulation runs synchronously with the emulated automation program, in real or virtual time (such as slower or faster execution) according to the requirement. Users can create snapshots to save the exact state of a plant process, which can then be reproduced at any time.

New functions in the Coupling Wizard allow signals to be directly connected and signal properties to be imported. The Coupling Wizard also enables a simplified routing and scaling of signals, which in turn further reduces the effort for designing a simulation model.

With the expanded Simit Simulation Framework, Siemens is offering a powerful, flexible platform for creating a test and training environment. Not only can the engineering quality be improved with the aid of virtual commissioning, but systems can also be brought into operation on schedule and within budget. The extended emulation capabilities help further by setting up a flexible and efficient training environment to train the personnel optimally and thereby also increase productivity while operations are in progress.

More information about Simit is available at: www.siemens.com/simit

Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is a global technology powerhouse that has stood for engineering excellence, innovation, quality, reliability and internationality for more than 165 years. The company is active in more than 200 countries, focusing on the areas of electrification, automation and digitalization. One of the world's largest producers of energy-efficient, resource-saving technologies, Siemens is No. 1 in offshore wind turbine construction, a leading supplier of combined cycle turbines for power generation, a major provider of power transmission solutions and a pioneer in infrastructure solutions as well as automation, drive and software solutions for industry. The company is also a leading provider of medical imaging equipment – such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging systems – and a leader in laboratory diagnostics as well as clinical IT. In fiscal 2014, which ended on September 30, 2014, Siemens generated revenue from continuing operations of €71.9 billion and net income of €5.5 billion. At the end of September 2014, the company had around 357,000 employees worldwide. Further information is available on the Internet at www.siemens.com .

Reference Number: PR2014110031PDEN

Contact
Mr. David Petry
Process Industries and Drives Division

Siemens AG

Schuhstr. 60

91052 Erlangen

Germany

Tel: +49 (9131) 7-26616

david.petry​​@siemens.com