Key additions to TIA Portal V15.1 include new simulation and virtual commissioning options which are said to enable better digital design of integrated work processes, as well as the expanded application focus with Simatic S7-1500R/H controllers, Sinamics S210 drive integration, Multiuser Engineering, software units and OPC UA functions.

Using Simatic S7-PLCSIM Advanced, a digital twin of the Simatic S7-1500 controller is created in the TIA Portal for simulation and virtual commissioning purposes. The new Simatic Machine Simulator V1.0 then combines this digital twin with the NX Mechatronics Concept Designer (NX MCD) simulation software for mechatronic machine concepts. This enables the virtual validation of complete machines: mechatronic and control models are synchronised and machine-level applications can be simulated and then verified. Combining simulation models for controllers and mechanics gives rise to a digital twin of the real world application. This enables the simulation and validation of machines, and optimisation processes to be tested without the need for real prototypes. Engineering errors can be quickly identified and corrected before actual commissioning. Under realistic conditions, the comparison between the digital twin and real systems makes it possible to respond promptly to changes and automatically consider modifications in upstream and downstream stages of development.

The commissioning of S7-1500 controllers in TIA Portal V15.1 is also faster and more efficient than before. The TIA Portal Multiuser Engineering has been augmented with a commissioning mode and it is now possible to structure the user program using software units.

Source: Control Engineering Europe - All Articles
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