Component-based simulation framework for production systems

Complexity in the design of plants and machines is permanently increasing. The introduction of model-driven design methodologies in the field of Industrial Automation and Control Systems helps to cope with requirements like limited budget and reduced ramp-up time. Simulation is a major key to enable a concurrent development in all involved domains. This work analyzed requirements for simulation of industrial plants and the aptitude of industrial control runtime environments. We propose the use of IEC 61499 industrial automation runtime environments to simulate plants or integrate specialized external simulation tools. By applying the concept of Instrumentation and Control points, in form of function blocks, which represent the components' I/Os, the transition from simulation to implementation is facilitated.