SIMIT Simulation Framework runs on state-of-the-art notebooks or desktop computers with Windows 7 Professional/Ultimate (32/64-bit), and also on virtual systems (VMware ESXi Server V5.1). Flexible application is possible, and it can be integrated via open interfaces into the factory automation with SIMATIC S7 and SIMATIC WinCC or into the process automation with SIMATIC PCS 7.

Since the models can be calculated in real-time, SIMIT Simulation Framework can be linked to the real automation technology ("Hardware in the loop"). A "Software in the loop" test is also possible through virtualization of the automation system using the S7?PLCSIM emulation software.

Interfacing to the real automation system is usually made via PROFIBUS DP or PROFINET IO. Interfaces (simulation units) simulate the devices on PROFIBUS DP/PROFINET IO in this case. A PRODAVE coupling can also be used for the MPI/DP or IE interface of the automation system for process data traffic with SIMIT Simulation Framework (requirement: PRODAVE driver V6.1; not included in the product package).

Further simulation models can be coupled to SIMIT Simulation Framework:

• Data exchange via standardized interfaces such as OPC and Shared Memory
• Synchronization via the remote control interface

In the case of coupling via the remote control interface, SIMIT Simulation Framework can be either the master or client (slave) for other simulations. Using virtual time management, simulations can also be implemented faster or slower than in real-time.

SIMIT Simulation Framework can be perfectly adapted to individual requirements with three software packages that are scaled in function and scope.

• SIMIT Simulation Framework Standard with
  • portal view with workflow management for creation of simulation project
  • Standard component library
  • 3D viewer based on VRML (Virtual Reality Modeling Language)
  • Interfaces for PROFIBUS DP, PROFINET IO and PRODAVE
  • Trends and messages (TME)
  • Scripting environment
  • Editor for creating macro components (MCE)
  • Editor for creating dynamic graphics and animations (DGE)
  • Automatic Control Interface (ACI)
  • Automatic generation of signal lists from SIMATIC Manager data
  • Runtime for components developed with SIMIT Simulation Framework Ultimate
• SIMIT Simulation Framework Professional
  All the features of SIMIT Simulation Framework Standard, plus:
  • S7-PLCSIM, OPC and remote control interfaces
  • Modification of simulation model during runtime
  • Engineering efficiency for SIMATIC PCS 7 (SMD)
  • Automatic generation of the actuator/sensor level based on templates/typicals
• SIMIT Simulation Framework Ultimate
  All the features of SIMIT Simulation Framework Professional, plus:
  • Shared memory interface for high-performance coupling
  • XML interface for automatic generation of models and connections
  • Development environment for custom components (CTE)

The following extension libraries make available specific technological components:

• FLOWNET:
  Library for simulation of flow networks with homogeneous media (water/gases) including pressures, temperatures and flow rates
• CONTEC:
  Library for 2D simulation of material handling equipment