CIROS® 7 is a powerful, industry-proven 3D simulation platform designed for the modelling, programming and simulation of automation systems. It combines advanced design tools with educational features for creating learning environments tailored to technical schools, vocational training centres, engineering institutions and research laboratories.

The platform supports the use of predefined models, the development of new virtual installations, the integration of industrial interfaces and the implementation of customised solutions, including those developed using Python.

1. Main Features

• 3D simulation: discrete-time simulation with tools for modelling mechanisms and automated systems.
• CAD import and export: support for formats such as STEP, IGES, STL, VRML and COLLADA, together with common export formats.
• Automated system design: creation of machines, production cells and industrial production lines using model libraries and application modules.
• Robot library: access to more than 1,100 robot models for designing and simulating robotic applications.
• Robot programming: support for several programming languages, including Industrial Robot Language (IRL), Mitsubishi MELFA BASIC V, KUKA Robot Language (KRL) and ABB RAPID.
• Virtual human model: representation of a virtual operator with 30 independent degrees of freedom.
• Educational digital twin: connection to the MES4 system for the simulation and educational operation of learning factories.
• Visualisation and output: multiple camera paths and viewing modes, with the ability to export results as videos or HTML5 content viewable on different devices.

2. Model Library and Educational Resources

CIROS® 7 includes an extensive library of models and resources designed to support progressive learning in industrial automation and robotics.

• Beginner-level models for introducing fundamental concepts.
• Additional educational resources available through Festo LX, subject to free registration.
• Virtual representations of Festo Didactic training systems, including MPS and Robotino, supporting the transfer of learning outcomes between simulated environments and physical equipment.
• Examples for configuring and using industrial interfaces, including PLCSIM Advanced.
• Preconfigured models for preparing programming, control and commissioning exercises.

3. PLC and Industrial Interface Integration

Simulated models can be controlled using different solutions, depending on the selected training or research architecture.

• Control through the integrated STEP 7 PLC environment.
• Use of programming language interpreters, including IRL.
• Connection to external environments such as PLCSIM and PLCSIM Advanced.
• Communication with OPC-compatible interfaces and environments, including CODESYS, through OPC UA or EzOPC.
• Simultaneous connection of up to four external hardware PLCs via EasyPort for Hardware-in-the-Loop applications.
• Integration with external simulation and control solutions using MATLAB, Python and EtherCAT.

4. Fault Simulation and Maintenance Training

The fault simulation mode makes it possible to reproduce malfunction scenarios and develop exercises in fault diagnosis, troubleshooting and maintenance. The behaviour of selected components can be adapted to create educational scenarios that match specific training objectives.

This approach enables learners to practise identifying faults, analysing possible causes and applying a structured recovery procedure without unnecessarily exposing physical equipment to operational risks.

5. Educational and Research Applications

CIROS® 7 adapts to a wide range of learning environments, from individual workstations to robotic stations and classrooms dedicated to virtual learning factories. The platform supports lesson preparation, scenario development, skills assessment and experimentation with automation solutions.

6. Licenses and Additional Features

CIROS Studio

A license intended for teachers, trainers and researchers. It enables users to create new scenarios, prepare educational activities, configure projects, incorporate fault behaviour and prepare distributed working environments. It also supports connections to selected compatible physical robot controllers.

CIROS Education

A license intended for learners and students. It enables users to work with predefined models or models supplied by an instructor, run simulations and generate outputs in the form of programs or simulation videos.

CIROS Cyber-Physical Library (CP-L)

Activating this license unlocks the extended model and resource library associated with the CP Factory and CP Lab environments.

Manufacturing Execution System 4 (MES4)

This license enables the standalone MES4 V1 software to be fully commissioned for implementing an educational digital twin of a learning factory comprising CP Factory, CP Lab and MPS 400 systems.

7. License Activation and Delivery

Licenses are supplied digitally by default. Depending on the selected configuration, activation can be performed using a USB license key, on a local computer or through a trainer license.

The trainer license allows users to generate sub-licenses with independently defined expiry periods. This option is particularly suitable for training centres and environments where equipment and workstations may be used across different locations.

Purchasing a license grants permanent use of the version available at the time of purchase. Updates are included for the following two years. Digital delivery can be completed within a few working days, depending on order processing arrangements.

8. Virtual Reality

CIROS® 7 supports OpenVR for virtual reality simulation applications. Using this feature requires, among other things, a free Steam account and compatible virtual reality equipment.

9. System Requirements

• Processor: 7th-generation Intel Core i5 or equivalent.
• RAM: 8 GB minimum.
• Storage: at least 200 GB of HDD or SSD storage.
• Operating system: Windows 10 version 1709, 64-bit, or later.
• Graphics card for simple models: Intel HD Graphics 530 or higher.
• Graphics card for complex models and virtual reality: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 or higher.

Note: performance depends on model complexity, the number of simulated elements and the features being used. More powerful hardware may be required for demanding projects or virtual reality applications.

10. Areas of Application

• Industrial automation and robotics education.
• Robot and programmable logic controller programming training.
• Design and simulation of robotic workcells and production lines.
• Preparation for commissioning and maintenance of automated systems.
• Fault diagnosis and troubleshooting in a virtual environment.
• Development and validation of automation solutions in research laboratories.
• Creation of educational digital twins for learning factories.