Putting together what belongs together

Real devices do have a task, an appearance, connection terminals and a description. So why not encapsulate all this in a software object. This would make engineering quicker and safer.

Real devices as software objects in engineering

Real devices and functions are converted to software objects called CATs (Composite Automation Types). They make the engineering of plants and equipment much easier.

Software objects (CATs) encapsulate all aspects

Control logic / control engineering according to IEC 61499 or IEC 61131

Visual representation HMI / SCADA with symbols, faceplates, etc.

Field connection of the hardware-specific inputs/outputs

Simulation- and testing possibilities

Documentation

Quick and safe automation engineering with CATs

CATs are pre-fabricated and pre-tested. They accelerate engineering and ensure persistent quality of the results. Due to the integration of all aspects, interfaces, and thereby error sources, are eliminated.

Engineers are enabled to build their own CATs  based on their specific needs. We offer support and design recommendations.

Libraries for your specific needs

Software objects are consolidated in libraries, composed of objects needed for specific applications like buildings automation or process automation. Even a combination of virtualised control hardware from a certain vendor can be offered as a library. The manufacturing of customized libraries is available in our service portfolio.

Type – Instance model

CATs represent a “type instance model”. During planning, the engineer can create and process instances of a type and re-use them without limitation. Changes to the type are forwarded to all instances upon request.  

Hierarchical CAT architecture

Complete subsystems are encapsulated as an object by way of  hierarchical CAT-in-CAT structures. Customers can develop their own CATs, and thereby store their special applications know-how. This constitutes a further improvement in engineering.

Advantages of CATs

  • all automation tasks of a device are seamlessly integrated
  • very quick engineering (drag-&-drop)
  • secured, consistent quality
  • reusability
  • no interfaces, no error sources