USING OPC DATA EXCHANGE IN SIMULATION ASSISTED AUTOMATION TESTING

摘要

Dynamic process simulation models can be used for testing automation - both control and logic - before the commissioning. This activity requires a flexible, fast and robust connection between automation software and process simulation engines. OPC Data eXchange (DX) specification provides an open and standardized means for configuring connections and exchanging data between various kinds of automation components, e.g. dynamic process simulators and automation software. This paper first presents an analysis of the DX specification from the perspective of large-scale simulation use. Then, a DX server design is introduced that provides high performance, without compromising component reuse and portability. Then, the throughput of a prototype DX server is evaluated. A performance test is carried out to demonstrate the applicability of DX-based communication in simulation assisted automation testing purposes.