Testing systems and software in virtual space
Systems and processes simulated in WinMOD allow extensive and customised testing of control software.
Software test
Test the control programme under realistic but risk-free conditions and thoroughly check for discrepancies independently of the real machine.
System simulation
Advanced software testing through a combination of real-time behavioural simulations and manual interventions in the WinMOD simulation.
Factory Acceptance Test
Carrying out the FAT using a virtual simulation of the entire automation system to identify faults before the real test.
Software test
Test the control programme under realistic but risk-free conditions and thoroughly check for discrepancies independently of the real machine.
Comprehensive and system-independent software tests
The software test is a prerequisite for software quality. WinMOD systems create the conditions for carrying out the software test efficiently and with the necessary test depth, independently of the real system.
The WinMOD system can be connected to a real AS (HIL) or a virtual AS (SIL). The large number of WinMOD configurations available makes it possible to connect automation systems from different manufacturers at one workstation and with one WinMOD test project.
Software test with I/O simulation
The software test can relate to individual function controls in the AS or to the entire AS project. With the WinMOD configurations, process images with WinMOD signals can be configured quickly and easily. The WinMOD signal elements visualise the signal values with parameterisable displays. The signal values can be forced manually and spontaneously. A forcing engine and script generator are available for predefined test sequences.
Software test with fieldbus emulation
WinMOD configurations are available for the WinMOD system, e.g. for PROFIBUS / INTERBUS / PROFINET, which emulate the fieldbus with the projected bus configuration. Cyclical signals, acyclical signals and safety signals are transmitted. In the WinMOD project, the transmitted signals can be assigned to the fieldbus devices in a graphically structured manner. The device and process behaviour is then simulated in the WinMOD project to the extent required for the software test.
System simulation
Advanced software testing through a combination of real-time behavioural simulations and manual interventions in the WinMOD simulation.
Test behaviour simulations in real time
The use of system simulations is an extension of the simulation depth for the software test. It is typically a combination of behavioural simulations in real time and manual interventions in the WinMOD project.
System simulation for in-depth software tests
System simulation is used in software engineering when WinMOD systems are used for in-depth software testing of automation systems. This extends the depth of testing. The test sequences can be carried out repeatedly under the same conditions. The scope of the system simulation depends on the knowledge of the system behaviour. The simulation depth corresponds to the requirements for the software test and for the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT).
The connection to the control unit is established via WinMOD configurations.
Clear coordination creates commitment
The user interface, structuring and simulation depth should be agreed between the client and contractor when coordinating the tests to be carried out. Further expansion of the plant simulation can lead to a training model, a shadow plant or a virtual machine/plant.
The digital twin as the key to migrations
The digital twin supports the implementation of migrations. This applies in particular to the replacement of automation systems with extreme requirements for recommissioning while the system is in operation.
Factory Acceptance Test
Carrying out the FAT using a virtual simulation of the entire automation system to identify faults before the real test.
Factory Acceptance Test (FAT)
In process automation, the Factory Acceptance Test has long been established in project management. The switches and lights originally connected for software testing have been replaced by WinMOD systems since 1995 and the depth of testing has been increased.
The test environment consists of the real control and management systems and a device periphery emulated with the WinMOD system. The behaviour of the system and the process components is simulated as far as is necessary and agreed for the execution of the test (see also system simulation). This test environment drastically reduces the effort compared to tests with real peripherals, while at the same time increasing the depth of the test.
Realisation with WinMOD
- With the WinMOD system software, the requirements for simulation depth and the user interface can be fully covered
- Preparation of libraries, the use of design standards and the use of the WinMOD EngineeringAssistant minimise the engineering effort required to create the WinMOD project
- Software testing and FAT complement each other to provide state-of-the-art quality assurance
- Early detection of software errors, the reduction of risks and the execution of tests independently of the location and completion of the real system bring clear improvements in the project process and economic conditions for the software supplier and the client
- FAT with WinMOD has become an integral part of many tenders
Would you like to work with us?
We will be happy to advise and support you with your first project. After a short online briefing, you can get started and test WinMOD straight away.
One call is enough!
Do you need support?
If you have any questions, problems or other concerns, please contact our support team. You can also find helpful instructions and downloads in our support area.