AutomationML (Automation Markup Language) is a neutral data format based on XML for the storage and exchange of plant engineering information, which is provided as an open standard.
The goal of AutomationML is to interconnect the heterogeneous tool landscape of modern engineering tools in their different disciplines, like mechanical plant engineering, electrical design, HMI development, PLC and robot control.
AutomationML describes real plant components as objects encapsulating different aspects.
It can describe a screw, a claw, a robot or a complete manufacturing cell in different levels of detail.
After first evaluations of exchange formats, Daimler initiated the joint activity of the companies ABB, KUKA, Rockwell Automation and Siemens together with netAllied and Zühlke as well as the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and the University of Magdeburg in October 2006 to define and standardize the Automation Markup Language (AutomationML) as an intermediate format for the Digital Factory.