Glossary · Semantic interoperability and information models
AutomationML
Also known as: AML, Automation Markup Language
German: AutomationML
AutomationML is an XML-based, neutral data format standardized in IEC 62714 for exchanging engineering data of production systems between tools, such as plant topology, geometry, kinematics and control logic. It builds on CAEX (IEC 62424) for the plant hierarchy and references COLLADA for geometry and kinematics and PLCopen XML for logic.
- Information models
- Standards
In one sentence
AutomationML is an XML-based format standardized in IEC 62714 for exchanging plant engineering data between tools.
Example
The mechanical design tool exports a robot cell as an AutomationML file, and the electrical engineering tool imports its components and signal list without retyping.
How it applies
- Engineering: AutomationML reduces manual re-entry of data between mechanical, electrical and control engineering tools. Libraries of role, interface and system unit classes define what the exchanged objects mean.
- Integration: Successful exchange requires agreeing on the libraries and conventions to be used; the format alone does not guarantee that both tools interpret the data the same way.
- Documentation: Engineering data exchanged in AutomationML, such as device lists and signal assignments, can be a structured source for documentation such as parts lists and I/O lists.
AutomationML vs. Asset Administration Shell
AutomationML focuses on exchanging engineering data between tools during plant design. The Asset Administration Shell (AAS) focuses on the digital representation of assets across their lifecycle. The two can be combined, for example by embedding AutomationML files in an AAS.