AUTOMATION STUDIOCircuit Design and Simulation Software

THE WORLDWIDE STANDARD FOR TEACHINGFLUID POWER AND AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGIES

The Indispensable Tool for High Schools, Colleges, Universities,Vocational Institutions, and Corporate Training Centers.

TM

Automation Studio was designed with teaching and training in mind. Since 1988, we have provided morethan 50,000 packages to thousands of High Schools, Vocational Institutions, Technical Colleges,Universities, and Corporate Training Centers around the world.

Fits Into Any CurriculumAutomation Studio does not dictate how to structure a course but completesa curriculum by complementing lectures, textbooks, and lab notes at any levelin any discipline including:

• Industrial Technology• Mechatronics • Industrial Maintenance• Mechanical Engineering Technologies• Instrumentation and Controls Technologies• Electrical and Electronics Engineering• Industrial and Manufacturing Technologies• Electromechanical Technologies• Mechanical Drafting (CAD)• Automation Technologies

Check our website at www.automationstudio.com, as we regularly makeavailable lab exercises, complimentary courses, etc. to assist in the user’sintegration to Automation Studio.

Teaching and Learning with Automation StudioAutomation Studio allows educators to quickly draw circuits and perform demonstrations. By using schematics, help files, cut-away animations, and data monitoring,it becomes an indispensable tool that helps explaining equipment and controls operation from the component up to the system level. Automation Studio makes it easy to experiment with all types of systems, from basic to complex. As students advance, the simulation reinforces the understanding of the interaction between the various electrical, automation and fluid power technologies. Not only can the student learn by observing the states of switches and components, but also by observing thecolor schemes of symbols and using the variable plotting functions.

Even if the curriculum concentration is focused on one specific technology, the students will be exposed to a wider understanding of circuit technology relationships therefore students will be better able to understand how ladder logic, PLC circuits, motor controls, and digital electronics function to control the fluid power circuits. Thisis why Automation Studio has become the worldwide standard in education and training at all levels for fluid power and automation technologies.

Features and Benefits• User-friendly with a very short learning curve

• A cost-effective solution; reduces the need to purchase expensive equipment

• Allows experimentation with virtual equipment that may not otherwise be purchased or manipulated (i.e. large cylinders, large loads, a complete factory)

• Accurate simulation reinforces learned principles

• Simplifies teaching as it can be used for demonstrations

• Simulation stimulates learning for students

• Multiple technologies help expand to other curriculums

• Customizable libraries for each lab exercise

• Increases knowledge retention

• Makes learning safer by utilizing a virtual factory instead of operating real equipment

• Enables professors to teach more course content by saving time with software

• Capacity to quickly build, load, modify, and manipulate circuit examples

• Capacity to show relationships between moving components and automated systems • Allows students to learn a wider range of integrated circuit technologies and their interactions

• Safe and efficient way to experiment and learn which complements “hands-on” hardware curriculums

Testimonials“With funding for technical programs becoming very limited we find the Automation Studio software

an excellent alternative in teaching the basics of hydraulics, pneumatics and machine control. The software provides a positive feedback as well as reinforcement for the students when they take their

lecture information into the lab. The simulated cutaway views allow the student to see “inside” greatlyenhancing the non-simulated cutaways we pass around in class. Then as the student advances Automation

Studio simulation software reinforces the circuitry and interaction between the various electrical, pneumatic andhydraulic components. We find Automation Studio an excellent teaching tool and an alternative to the high cost of

funding a professional/technical college program.” Robert Williams

Spokane Community College, WA - USA, Fluid Power Dept.

“As a teacher in electromechanical of automated systems, I’ve always been concerned with improving the learning process of my students by using different educational tools that would allow me to reach my teaching goals. Since my discovery of Automation

Studio, I have recognized that this software is truly the educational tool par excellence. It is valued by students and teachers alike. Its simplicity of operation, its multiple workshops and its simulation function make it the perfect learning tool.

I strongly recommend Automation Studio.”Jacques Martineau,

Professional Training Center Qualitech, QC - Canada, Electromechanical Technologies Dept.

A WORLDWIDE STANDARD FOR TRAINING

Thousands of Symbolsin Modular LibrariesAutomation Studio’s libraries incorporate internationally recognizedgraphic standards. These includeISO, DIN, IEC, JIC, and others. The libraries display all of the component categories in a comprehensive manner. Simplybrowse through the list, then selectand drag and drop the componentonto the schematic.

Automation Studio is a completely integrated software package that allows users to design, document,simulate, and animate circuits consisting of various automation technologies including Pneumatics,Hydraulics, PLCs, Sequential Function Charts, Electrical Controls, and many more.

Multi-Document ProjectsAutomation Studio allows the creation of multi-document projects. This is helpful as separate diagrams by function and category can be generated, and during simulation, all the diagrams interact seamlessly with each other. Users can also includeWord, Excel, or other types of Windows documents. This can be helpful to add notes and instructions to labs and exercises.

StandalonePackage forEasy andIntegratedEditingWith AutomationStudio, there is noneed for additionalediting software, itprovides intuitiveand powerful toolbars and pull-down menus.Moreover, with thedrawing tools andgrouping functions,users can create special symbols ofany complexity tofurther customizediagrams and project templates.

Full Color Simulation During simulation, components become animated and lines are color-coded according to their states. Users can further control the simulation pace with functions such as Normal, Slow Motion, Step by Step, and Pause.

Interfaces to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Equipment: Perfect Additions to TeachIndustrial ControlsTo connect Automation Studio to the outside world, users can choose from two options: I/O Interface Kit or OPC Client module.

The Automation Studio I/O Interface Kit is a hardware solution that allows connecting 8 inputs and 8 outputs directly to a PLC I/O or to real equipment suchas relays, contacts, valves, sensors, etc.

As for the OPC Client (OLE for Process Control), it is a standard software interface that allows AutomationStudio to exchange data with any PLC or other control devices for which a manufacturer supplies an OPC server software. After installing the OPC server for the device of your choice, simply map the addresses and turn Automation Studio into a versatile I/O simulator or a Soft-PLC.

TRULY USER-FRIENDLY SOFTWARE FOR TRAINING

PLC

External Devices

OPC Client - Server

AUTOMATION STUDIOI/O Interface Kit

AUTOMATION STUDIO OPC

Plotting Simulated ParametersWith a simple drag and drop operation, users canset up a plot of any simulated parameter and variable for any component.Further, the results can be transferred to a textfile and used in any spreadsheet or database compatible application such as MS Excel or MS Access.

Make your Own Symbols,Components, Libraries, andTemplatesUsing the standard components, the flexible drawing tools, and the grouping functions; users can cre-ate and customize their own libraries and templates. For training, teachers can create libraries spe-cific to an exercise, thereby limiting the number of com-ponents to only what is needed.

Automation Studio is easy-to-use, and economical, and adapts to any curriculum. It truly helps studentslearn and retain course content faster. With Automation Studio, students spend their energy learning thetechnology, not the software interface.

FROM BASIC TO ADVANCED CONCEPTS

Dynamic and RealisticSimulationAutomation Studio includes simulation capabilities that meet the requirements of allthe supported technologies.

The accurate Hydraulic and Pneumatic Simulator is based on sound and reliable modeling techniques such as Bernoulli’s lawand gradient method. During simulation, userscan precisely monitor pressures, flows, and displacement values at any point in a circuit.

Simulation ParametersThe default simulation parameters supplied with Automation Studio’s Hydraulic andPneumatic components eliminate the need to perform an initial set-up. Just lay out the components and start the simulation.

For most components, users can modify simulation parameters such as applied loads, dimensions,

angles, as well as advanced parameters includinginternal leakage, friction, etc. Calculated variables

such as areas and volumes are automatically displayed. To illustrate more complex concepts, users

can modify the simulation parameters and show different behaviors including dynamic friction, static

forces, etc. Wherever applicable, characteristic performance curves can be entered to obtain a more

realistic behavior of the system using numerical interpolation.

Cross-Section AnimationsThe animated component cross-sectionillustrates the internal functioning of the components.These animations aresynchronized with thecircuit simulation.

OPTIONS AND MODULES TO TEACH EVERY TOPIC

Automation Studio allows you to create your solutions from among a vast choice of options and modules in order to teach the topics you wish to cover. With Automation Studio, you build schematics by simply dragging and dropping components from the library onto the diagram. Once circuits are completed, the simulation mode is started with a click of the mouse.

Pneumatic and Hydraulic LibrariesThe Pneumatic and Hydraulic Libraries include all the required components in order to build basicdesigns or more advanced layouts. Both libraries comply with ISO 1219-1 and 1219-2 standards forfluid power schematic design. Furthermore, actuators can be sized to emulate realistic behavior. Pressure regulators and flow controls are also adjustable during simulation to recreate timing and force functions. The libraries are extensive and include manifolds, specialized logic elements,and much more.

Electrical ControlsLibraryThe Electrical Controls Library includes all the components required to buildschematics of any complexity. It comescomplete with switches, relays, solenoids, counters, push buttons, andmuch more. The graphical standardscan either be American or European.

Sequential Function Chart (Grafcet)Specialized EditorThe Sequential Function Chart (SFC) Editor is the tool ofchoice to implement control structures according to theIEC-61131-3 programming languages standard. This universal method can be used in conjunction with anyother library to control any element. SFC allows teaching of control systems more effectively and providesexcellent supplemental documentation for pneumatic,hydraulic, and electrical projects; as recommended by ISO and IEC standards.

PLC Ladder Logic LibraryThe PLC Ladder Logic Library includes all the basic ladder logic functions such as contacts, input/output, timers, counters, logic test, and mathematical. Using Automation Studio

to learn basic or advanced PLC controlsis extremely easy since users do not have to learn complex PLC programming environments, whichwere not specifically designed for training. Combined with the otherlibraries, the Ladder Logic Libraryallows users to implement a completevirtual factory.

Digital ElectronicsLibraryThe Digital Electronics Library comescomplete with standard devices includinginverters, logic gates, flip-flops, counters, shift registers, comparators,switches, LEDs, 7-bar display, decoders,multiplexers, etc. Everything needed toteach basic to complex logic is available.

Distributed by:

DOS, Windows, Windows 98, ME, NT, 2000 and XP are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines.Printed in Canada

Minimum Requirements• IBM PC or compatible with a Pentium 350Mhz• 256 MB RAM• Microsoft Windows 98, ME, NT, 2000, or XP• Hard disk with at least 150MB of free space

Network licenses are also available.

Options• Pneumatics • Hydraulics • Electrical Controls • PLC Ladder Logic • Sequential Function Chart (Grafcet) • Digital Electronics • OPC client • I/O Interface Kit (including card and relay box)• Bill of Material and Catalog link

Web Demonstration and TrainingYou may quickly get a good understanding of Automation Studio by scheduling a free on-line presentationwith one of our technical representatives. With the current Internet technology, you can save a lot oftime and have a complete personalized demonstration of Automation Studio in your home or office.

We also provide convenient training over the Web. Whether you need complete training on AutomationStudio, or wish to quickly increase your expertise on a particular topic, you can be in contact with an Automation Studio specialist at any time and from anywhere in the world. Call us orcheck our website for further details.

Annual Maintenance and Extended Support ProgramsSign up for the “Annual Maintenance Plan” or “Extended Support Program” and automatically receive new releases and benefit from more support depending on the chosen options. Check our website for details.

Special Educational Institution PricingAutomation Studio is provided to educational institutions at more affordable prices that areconsistent with budget constraints. Call our representatives for a quote.

For more information, visit our website at www.automationstudio.com

9999, Cavendish Blvd., Suite 350Saint-Laurent (Quebec) Canada H4M 2X5

(514) 748-8050 • Fax: (514) 748-7169http://www.automationstudio.com

Famic Technologies 2000 Inc.

FT-PRE-80001

THE BEST SOFTWARE FOR AUTOMATION TRAINING

“I became acquainted with Automation Studio about 7 years ago when I wasinstructing at Shelton State Community College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. I needed something that I could use in the classroom to draw basic circuits for thestudents. Since this program not only allowed me to draw them, but to simulate them as well, it was the choice for the time. Since then, I have seen several others on the market, but none seem to have all the “bells and whistles” that this program has. One of our customers at SSCC saw a demonstration during a tour of our facility, and liked the program so much thatthey purchased it for their plant and put all their hydraulic systems on it. Theyinstalled it on the machine computers and use it for troubleshooting and for makingdesign changes in their circuits.

Here at AIDT, I am having it installed on student computers so that they can drawthe circuits that we build on our trainers. This allows them to try their circuits to see if they will work before building them. We are also installing it inour Electro-Pneumatic lab where they teach troubleshooting. We have had verygood response from all who have used or viewed this program.”

Will Hadden, InstructorAlabama Industrial Development Training at Mercedes Benz Institute Alabama, USA

“I have found that Automation Studio provides an excellent “bridge” from theory to application. Students who use the software more readily developthe ability to build real circuits and demonstrate the understanding of the theories behind the circuitry. It is a very effective teaching tool and I wouldhighly recommend it for the technical instructor.”

David Hubbert, Program Chair Industrial Maintenance Technology, Texas State Technical CollegeBrownwood, USA

“...Here at Warwickshire College, I had it installed on student computers in our“Applications Centre” so that they can draw the circuits that they build on ourtraining rigs. This allows them to try their circuits to see if they will work beforebuilding them. The simulated cut-away views allow the student to see “inside”.This provides a positive feedback as well as reinforcement. Then as the studentadvances, Automation Studio simulation software reinforces the circuitry andinteraction between the various electrical, pneumatics and hydraulic components.We find Automation Studio an excellent teaching tool.”

Paul ToddWarkwickshire College, Leamington Spa Centre, Warwickshire, United Kingdom

“Automation Studio has been taught and used for about four years now in BEP Automated Mechanical System Maintenance; this tool allows us to create diagrams with simulation in order to prepare for the electrical wiring. The contextsensitive help allows students to personally look for component behaviors andwiring methods!

This process allows to verify if the right choices were made in the creation ofpneumatic and electropneumatic systems. The fact that this software allows us tocreate circuits with a minimum error rate is a plus for students.”

Jean Louis PoignantLycée Bernard Palissy, France

“Automation Studio is a good tool for designing circuits before the students buildthem in the lab. The simulation capabilities will tell them if their circuit will workin the real world. It is also much faster than for example AutoCad since most symbols are already there.”

Dr. Jan BrinkManufacturing Engineering Technology, Midwestern State UniversityTexas, USA

Testimonials