What's New in Automation Studio™ E8.0
Automation Studio™ E8.0 - Educational Edition helps teachers deliver content,
as well as improve the learning experience for students. Use realistic
illustrated components to create and simulate circuits. A new Forum is
available for quick access to the latest demonstration files and custom
libraries. You can also share your projects and experience with other
instructors and users worldwide.
Contact us
for a Live Online Demonstration of the new features.
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*The availability of some of the new features is subject to the
configuration of the purchased license.
Improved synchronization in certain cases where internal and
external cosimulation is used.
Line colour in simulation per line type
The simulation colour as a function of
pressure/flow/speed/temperature for hydraulic and pneumatic
conduits can be set independently for each line function.
For example, different pressure thresholds can be set for
working lines vs pilot, return and drain lines.
Breather
It is possible to connect a breather to any of the top ports of
a custom reservoir. This port must be declared as pneumatic.
It is thus possible to regulate the air pressure in this type of
tank, either by directly connecting a breather or via a
pneumatic circuit.
New illustrated electrical component library
A new illustrated component library has been created to extend
the capacity to build digital twins. French residential
electrical components have been added so that unambiguous
residential electrical circuits can be drawn visually.
Step by Step Mode
The increment used by Step by Step mode can now be modified. The
simulation will advance by a step which can be set by the user.
True RMS
The measurement of true RMS values and frequencies of electrical
signals have been improved and can handle all types of signals.
Pneumatic pilot
Directional valve pneumatic pilots take negative pressure
(vacuum) into account in the calculation of the force applied to
the spool.
Project Overview
In the project creation dialogue, a preview zone gives a quick
look of the project content. The documents of the project can be
scrolled through.
Catalogues
When searching for a catalogue component equivalent to a
component on the schematic, it is now possible to search either
the online or local catalogues. This makes the online catalogues
even more useful.
New Electrical Illustrated Component Library
A new illustrated component library has been created to extend
the capabilities to build digital twins. One-Line electrical
components have been added in order to be able to draw
electrical transmission network circuits explicitly and
visually.
Additionally, the following illustrated libraries are also
available: pneumatic, PLC, DC electrical, renewable energy,
residential electricity, hydraulic cross-section, and more.
New Electrical Symbols for Aeronautics
A new electrical symbol library has been added. It allows
electrical circuits to be represented in compliance with the
standards used in the aeronautical field. In the Automation
StudioTM electrical schematic editor, these symbols are
compatible with documents using the NEMA standard.
Component Frame
Each component or assembly of components can be framed without
adding drawing elements.
The frame is manually adjustable and customizable; width,
height, thickness, color and line type can all be modified.
Premade virtual trainers in all technologies, ready to be
connected!
Select from a variety of premade virtual trainers and rapidly
start making connections. These virtual trainers can also be
modified to create digital twins of your hardware trainers using
the illustrated libraries.
Students’ wiring and troubleshooting skills will be strengthened
as they will feel like they are connecting real components.
More than 25 demo files.
Partial list of Virtual Trainers:
Connect components like in real life!
Use flexible wires, cables and hoses to
simulate connecting to real trainers or real
equipment. After making the connections, users
can simulate, interact and troubleshoot just
like in real life. This is exactly like
connecting a banana cable to your hardware
trainer or, better yet, connecting directly to
the illustrated components. Once a link is
created, users can select the wire or hose type
from a drop-down menu adapted to the content
standards of the virtual trainer.
While drawing a conduit or a wire, or after
selecting it, it is possible to modify the
type of link from a list which is displayed
instantly.
New electrical wire colouring options in
simulation
It is possible to choose the criterion for
colouring electrical wires in simulation,
based on the wire type or globally. In
addition to the type of current, colours can
be chosen according to the voltage level or
the current level. The wires can use their
edit mode appearance in simulation mode.
New illustrated component libraries
New illustrated component libraries have been created to extend
the capabilities to build digital twins, they are:
- Motor Control
- Hydraulic
- Pneumatic Cross-Section
Additionally, the following illustrated libraries are also
available: pneumatic, PLC, DC electrical, renewable energy,
residential electricity, hydraulic cross-section, and more.
Easily choose schematic types between symbols,
illustrated components or virtual
trainers.
Simpler: Quickly drag and drop manufacturer
components onto the schematic, directly from the
browser.
More efficient: The new version of Automation
Studio™ online catalogues now allows advanced
searches based on both keywords and technical
properties present in the catalogues. The
technical data to be searched can be quickly
defined and filtered based on manufacturers and
catalogues, thanks to a new user-friendly
interface.
This enhanced user-friendly visual interface
improves the user experience when creating 2D
animations, all visible in one place. A
preview of the animations will help when
validating the expected behaviour.
Control 3D virtual systems with Automation
Studio™ or real PLCs
3D virtual systems provide inputs and outputs
that can be triggered using an electrical, PLC
or SFC control circuit within Automation
Studio™. Additionally, systems can be controlled
by a real PLC using OPC DA/UA.
Operational amplifiers
The new operational amplifiers make it possible to carry out the
basic assemblies.
New GRAFCET module
The new GRAFCET module fully complies with the IEC 60848
standard and allows programs to be edited and simulated. Our
GRAFCET module allows the usage of different input event types,
output modes (continuous and stored modes), structuring
(partition, forcing, enclosing, macro-steps).
New SFC module
The new SFC module fully complies with the IEC 61131 standard
and allows programs to be edited, simulated and, later on,
exported. Conditions and actions can call the project's ladder
diagram networks (LD). The module supports structured text
language (ST). It also takes into account the different action
qualifiers, as well as control actions with or without a final
scan.
New block components
This library is enriched with mathematical blocks allowing
matrix calculations as well as complex number operations.
User-friendliness
Shortcuts for accessing the layout of the current document, as
well as its drawing scale, have been added in the "Home" tab,
"Documentation" group.
Custom Component Edition
The components’ simulation parameters, in the illustrated
libraries, can now be modified by the user.
To meet the needs of training and technical documentation
departments, different attributes enrich the possibilities of
highlighting lines. Among others things, line ends can be
straight or rounded, bends can be straight, rounded or
chamfered, segments defining component connectors can be
highlighted or not.
Appearance for Fluid Components
To meet the needs of the training and technical publications
departments, the positions distributor valve can be highlighted
in edition and simulation according to their state of
activation. A library of additional objects can be provided on
request in order to complete components that do not yet support
these highlighting standards.
Appearance for Fluid Lines
To meet the needs of the training and technical publications
departments, the appearance attributes of each type of pipes are
enriched. Among others, highlighting can be activated in
simulation, can support patterns, can be full or sectional.
Export in Simulation Mode
To meet the needs of the training and technical publications
departments, it is possible to export the circuits in simulation
mode in a graphic format.
Manual Override With Detent
Directional valve command to depict a manual override with
detent groove, according to ISO 1219.
Viscometer and Density Meter
Addition of a measurement component to access the measurement of
kinematic viscosity, as well as the density of the oil at a node
in the circuit.
Proportional Pressure Regulators
Models are made sensitive to back pressure.
Coolers
An option has been added to define the power evacuated according
to the inlet temperature, the outlet temperature or the average
of these 2 values.
Block Components
New block components have been added to handle matrix operations
and complex numbers.
2-Quadrant Curves in the Electric Motor
Added a two-way model. A new simulation model that takes into
account the torque-speed characteristic curve in the forward and
reverse rotation has been added. In addition, a motor with 2
mechanical shafts is now available in the library.
Temperature Generator
Add a slider, which gives the option to modify the temperature
during the simulation.
Asynchronous motor 6 connectors
Transistor
Behavioural improvement. A capacitor has been added to stabilize
the voltage between the collector and the emitter and between
the drain and the source.
Ladder for Mitsubishi MELSEC iQ-R Series PLC
AB-500 and AB-5000 Compatible Functions and Addresses
These new libraries are an update from our original library that
did not include all the major functions. With these two new
libraries, you will be able to create control circuits using
addresses (AB-500) or tag names (AB-5000).
PLC Illustrated Library
This library was created to enable students to actually wire up
the PLC (Allen Bradley, Eaton, Koyo, LS Electric, Mitsubishi,
Omron, Siemens, etc.), write the Ladder Logic and run the
simulation to see the inputs and outputs being triggered on the
PLC according to their ladder diagram.
Pneumatic Illustrated Library
This illustrated Pneumatic Library enables students to use real
looking components to reproduce lab exercises. Using real
looking components will improve their skills of connecting
pneumatic systems.
Renewable Energy Illustrated Library
More efficient:The new Renewable Energy library is made with
illustrated components. It enables to create and simulate
circuits with look-alike components from real-world
applications. Some components even animate during simulation,
creating an optimal experience for training activities.
DC Electrical Illustrated Library
This illustrated library is intended for DC electrical circuits.
Components can be connected directly or by using the breadboard
to create and simulate your circuit.
Residential Electricity Illustrated Library
Students can now quickly build residential electrical circuits
using common components which they are familiar with.
Hydraulic Cross-Section View Library
Create your circuit using hydraulic components with a
cross-section view that is animated during simulation. Students
can now quickly visualize the flow movement in the circuit.
Hydraulic Cylinders with Load Custom Library
This custom library allows to quickly vary the cylinders load
during simulation and instantly see how it affects the system.
New & Updated Manufacturers' Catalogues
Easily drag & drop your selected Manufacturer's component
and integrate it into your Automation Studio™ circuit. They are
ready to simulate with accurate Manufacturer’s data. Each
component has been virtually tested within Automation Studio™ to
ensure that the simulation meets a manufacturer’s typical
application and performance specifications.
-
Automation Studio™ Electrical - Variable Frequency Drives
NEW
-
CKD Corporation SOON
-
Continental Hydraulics Valves
NEW
- Cy.Pag. NEW
-
Danfoss Orbital Motors
UPDATED
-
Doosan Mottrol NEW
-
Eaton Sectional CLS & CMA Mobile Valves
UPDATED
-
Humphrey Products NEW
-
IMI Precision / Norgren
SOON
-
Koganei UPDATED
-
Linde Hydraulics
UPDATED
-
Mitsubishi Electric
SOON
-
Shanghai Guorui Hydraulic Technology co (GRH) POWER Valves
NEW
-
SMC Pneumatics NEW
- Tecnord SOON
- Wandfluh NEW
-
Zhejiang Gaoyu Hydraulic Machinery Co Ltd
NEW
Additional Manufacturers' Catalogue components are added and
updated on a weekly basis.
Online Manufacturers' Catalogues
The Automation Studio™ Web Catalogues lets you drag & drop
components directly from the web browser interface to your
Automation Studio™ schematic. These components are always the
most up-to-date version. Therefore, there is no need to locally
manage multiple manufacturers' catalogue files. The Web
Catalogues for Automation Studio™ will be made available shortly
after the release of Automation Studio™ E7.
New Semiconductor Devices
New semiconductor components have been added to the
Electrotechnical library.
- Bipolar Junction Transistor (BJT)
- Junction Field Effect Transistor (JFET)
-
Metal-Oxyde-Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor (MOSFET)
- Thyristors
Thyristors, bipolar transistors and field effect transistors
have been introduced. The thyristor can be controlled by a
variable or by an external circuit and the transistors have been
designed to operate in both switching and amplification modes.
Improvement of the Battery Component
-
The ageing effect on the battery capacity is now taken into
account
-
OCV hysteresis effect is taken into account by differentiating
OCV vs SOC curves during charge and discharge
-
New advanced model taking into account the voltage transients'
behaviour during charge and discharge
-
Predefined battery parameters for the different available
battery types
Terminal Strips Builder
New terminals with jumper channels management of different
categories were added:
- Feed-Through
- Ground
- Feed-Through with Ground
- Knife Disconnect
- Disconnect
- Sensor / Actuator
- Fuse Holder
- Distribution Blocks
Simplified terminals are still available. The new builder allows
complete management of the Terminal Strips, including the
accessories management and the part numbers. Terminal strip
export and import functions are also available.
New Hydraulic Components
- Planetary gearboxes
- Differentials and torque converters
- Pressure compensated flow dividers
- Jumps with label frame
Improved Hydraulic Components Simulation Models
- Hydraulic motor plates can now have a limited stroke
-
Added an exchange surface area for the external dissipation of
hydraulic heaters
- Improved curve tracking in pressure regulators
- Pressure compensated flow dividers
- Improved manual directional valve commands
Support of Transmission Shafts in the Mechanism Manager
The Mechanism Manager now accepts rotating drive shafts. This
implies that all rotating elements, such as hydraulic,
pneumatic, electric motors and gearboxes, etc., can now be
simulated in the Mechanism Manager.
New Pneumatic Components
- Compressors
- Vacuum generators
- Vacuum cups
- Normally closed flow sensors
Virtual Systems Using Unity 3D
Virtual systems created using Unity 3D allow a training
experience with a high level of realism. These systems can be
controlled within Automation Studio™ using Electrical Controls,
PLCs and/or Sequential Function Chart. Access the Forum to
download the files and procedure to install the Unity 3D models.
New virtual systems are frequently added.
Download this library from the File Sharing/Virtual System 2D/3D
section of the new Forum:
www.famictech.com/forums/forum/educational
Additional Math Block Components
Adaptors in (math) blocks enable the creation of complex
behaviours for fluid power and electrical components.
New Access Rights Manager
This option enables to manage access rights to functionalities
of a specific project. For example, block the simulation to test
schematic skills and block access to component properties to
improve troubleshooting experience.
Download the procedure on
how to implement these permissions
from the new Forum.
Online Help
You can now access Automation Studio™ help documentation online.
The online help documentation is constantly improved and updated
based on users' support cases and feedback. Also, the software
installation file size is reduced.
Mouse Options Configuration
The new mouse button configuration menu allows users to set
their desired mouse buttons behaviour in Automation Studio™.
Smaller Simulation Pace
New simulation steps of up to 1 micro-second are available to
allow finer simulations. This feature is particularly useful to
simulate high frequencies phenomena (up to 100kHz), especially
in the electrical workshop.
Other Customer Requested Improvements & Bug Fixes
- Performance improvements
-
Conservation of the Internal Identifier of a Component When
Replaced
-
Fixed the radial speed variable of the transmission power units
-
Fixed discrepancies of the output pressure value of the
"Pressure and Temperature Flow Control" component
-
Fixed the flexible lines acting as a plug after a while in
simulation
-
Fixed the behaviour of unloading valve with check and drain
-
Changed the image shown in the component properties of the
"Bidirectional Motor with Shaft"
-
Fixed the Curve Export API not exporting all curves
-
Fixed an incorrect pressure at port 2 of the pneumatic "Remote
Pressure Reducing Valve" component
-
Fixed unhandled exception error in PLCs when the '&'
character was inserted in the description
-
Fixed BOM order changing when a model is saved
-
Fixed an issue with the BOM and lines when exporting to PDF
Illustrated Libraries
A new command opens illustrated libraries directly from
the application.
Ease of use
-
A dialogue box prompts for the choice of unit during
the assignment operation to facilitate the
interpretation of the value of one variable assigned
to another.
-
It is possible to hide the identifier of dynamic
measuring instruments.
Fluid and Line Manager
Pipes and wires whose properties are used by the
simulator are displayed in blue.
Managing properties’ preferences is also possible.
Configuration Export
Software settings can now be imported and exported for
uniform computer configuration.
Video Recording
The video recording tool offers the possibility to
replay its video to validate the content, to save it or
send it immediately after creating it.
Hyperlink
When a hyperlink type custom property is displayed on
the diagram, it becomes clickable.
Project Manager
The page numbers of documents can be displayed in square
brackets in all dialogue boxes that show the list of
documents, such as the Project Explorer.
Ticket Request
A command has been added in order to be able to request
assistance from Automation Studio™ in the Support tab.
It will then be sent automatically to a support agent.
Service Release Number
The service release number for your version has been
added in the dialogue box opened by the "About" command.
Installation and Circuits
The limit of 30 types of lines in installation circuits
has been raised to better meet user needs.
New Hydraulic Components
- Instant temperature regulator;
- Mechanically activated check valves;
-
Sequence valves normally open, with internal drain and
external drain;
- Cartridge valves normally open;
- 3-way sequence valve normally closed;
-
Restrictive pressure compensator positioned
downstream.
Improved Hydraulic Component Simulation Models
-
Addition of a pressure drop curve in the flow
transducer;
- Improvement of the proportional flow regulator.
Mechanism Manager
Support for mechanically linked jacks in the mechanism
manager.
Wire Management
Wires can now be individually set as perfect without
changing the global
setting.
Troubleshooting Module
-
You can now declare several parameters for the same
failure, thus being able to model a minor, moderate or
major failure.
-
You can now report unidirectional internal leaks.
Viewer
Export your Automation Studio™ projects in a brand new
format suitable for the free Automation Studio™ Viewer.
This file format removes properties from documents and
components that the designer does not want to share.
This file format can only be opened with Automation
Studio™ Viewer, making it easy to share while
maintaining a high level of confidentiality.
Library of preconfigured PLC Cards
A new specialized library of PLC input and output cards
offers you the possibility to quickly expand your range
of teaching materials for educational activities in
automation