Design Software Simplifies Creation and Validation of Automation Systems

An object-oriented software program simplifies the design process for automation systems in regulated industries by configuring applications using a smart control-device code library. Aiding with compliance to FDA 21 CFR Part 11 regulations, the Onestep Generator program from Schneider Electric (Philadelphia; www.schneiderelectric.com) translates functional specifications into a process control system format. The program also automatically creates content for validation protocol documents, provides version control, and tracks changes. New applications are created using a process analysis view that draws on a cache of stored data for pumps, drives, valves, and other process objects. Incremental compile and generation features allow engineers to add, delete, and upgrade the system throughout the software's implementation and maintenance phases. Because it provides a uniform platform for design and specification, the software also facilitates a common design methodology among users and minimizes mistakes, implementation times, and engineering and validation costs.

Zachary Turke