Runtime system

Multi-layer software architecture

With SIMOTION, motion tasks in many different machines are performed easily and uniformly.

To facilitate this, a very special, multi-layer architecture was chosen as the runtime software. All SIMOTION devices provide basic functionality such as PLC functionality with a command set according to IEC 61131-3. You can expand this basic functionality using the included technology packages and function libraries.

Scalable functionality

The technology packages, function libraries and multi-layer architecture of the runtime software combine to achieve the scalable functionality of SIMOTION.

Scalable

• Thanks to various functionality levels
• Thanks to software modules and technology packages with extensive functionality

Flexible

• Thanks to the integrated, freely programmable PLC following IEC 61131‑3 standards
• Thanks to the technology objects that can be freely instantiated from the technology packages (e.g. synchronous axes)
• Thanks to a broad functional scope with a complex command set as well as function blocks according to the PLCopen standard
• Thanks to the option to run servo, vector, stepper, and hydraulic drives
• Thanks to the ability to combine the various technology packages and function libraries

Expandable

• Thanks to standard functions of the function libraries

Technology packages

Each of these packages provides complete functionality for the technology in question. For example, the Motion Control technology package provides all functions for precise positioning movements, including camming.

It also handles the cyclic exchange of setpoints and actual values with the drive including position control, calculation of the movement profile, removal or overriding of motions, homing functions, encoder changeover, axis release, status information, and more.

In addition to the Motion Control technology package (including positioning, synchronous operation, output cam, and path interpolation), packages for other technologies, e.g. temperature control, are also available.

Function libraries

The function libraries offer standard functions

• For integration of special I/O modules (e.g. counter modules, communication modules, AS-Interface)
• For expanding the system functions (e.g. closed-loop controllers)

Modular user functions can also be stored as libraries for standardized implementation in projects.