Modeling and simulation of malfunctions in automation systems

The most promising approach for the design of powerful and complex automation systems is to build a simulation model and simulate it beforehand. Our approach includes the simulation of malfunctions into this development process. Each object and electrical connection in our simulation model has a set of possible malfunctions. A mathematical model describes the impact of malfunctions. We have integrated our malfunction modeling and simulation concepts into an existing simulation system and show applications of our approach for the training of students and maintenance staff. Our approach tackles the problem of training maintenance personnel efficiently. During the built-up of the real automation system, the maintenance staff can gain knowledge of all possible malfunctions using the simulation system.