AutomationML

Basics What is AutomationML?

2023-03-06 Von Sebastian Human 2 min Reading Time

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AutomationML is an XML-based, object-oriented language for data modeling. Its main functions are modeling, storing, and exchanging data for engineering purposes.

The Automation Markup Language, better known as AutomationML, is used for storing and exchanging plant design data and is available as an open standard according to IEC 62714.(Image: freely licensed / Pixabay) — The Automation Markup Language, better known as AutomationML, is used for storing and exchanging plant design data and is available as an open standard according to IEC 62714.
(Image: freely licensed / Pixabay)

AutomationML is the abbreviation for Automation Markup Language. It is designed openly and based on XML. The language allows developers to create and manage automation software. Therefore, it is highly relevant for Industry 4.0.

AutomationML can manage various types of automation software. It allows developers to define, manage, and monitor the components of an automation system. Therefore, AutomationML can be used in many different areas. These include the fields of

automation technology,
robotics,
process automation,
energy technology,
industrial electronics,
machine control,
mechanical engineering,
production plants,
manufacturing automation, and
industrial communication

What is the architecture of AutomationML like?

AutomationML is based on a multi-level model that maps the complex structure of automation projects.

At the lowest level of the AutomationML model is the machine or system level, which describes the individual system components and their relationships. At the next higher level, there are elements that describe the functions of the systems at a higher level of abstraction. Finally, at the top level, the application elements are located, describing the overall structure and functionality of the automation system.

At each level of the AutomationML model, data about the respective components can be stored. This includes descriptions, parameters, and other properties. Furthermore, connections can be established between the different levels to describe the automation systems in even more detail.

According to AutomationML.org, the markup language has a lean and distributed file architecture. It does not define a new file format. Instead, it combines existing, established XML data formats that have proven themselves in application for their specific domain.

Therefore, the normative part of IEC62714-1:2018 is relatively short. The data formats for the following modeling domains are:

Object topologies including hierarchies, properties, and relationships of objects: CAEX according to IEC 62424
Geometries and kinematics of objects: COLLADA 1.4.1 and 1.5.0 (ISO/PAS 17506:2012)
Discrete behavior of objects: PLCopen XML 2.0 and 2.0.1; additionally, IEC62714-4 aims to enable the use of IEC61131-10

CAEX according to IEC62424 forms the basis of AutomationML. This is where object-oriented information for engineering is stored. This could be, for example, a hierarchical structure of systems.

Each CAEX object can contain properties and reference geometry, kinematics, or logic information stored in third-party XML files. This allows for cross-domain modeling as well as future extensions.

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