PLC Validation for Shorter Downtimes and Project Cycles
Since the entire layout is available as a mechatronic model of the production facility, the simulation environment can be used directly for PLC (programmable logic controller) validation and virtual commissioning. The virtual facility behaves in precisely the same way as the real-world hardware – which is represented at the IMTS show by a MITSUBISHI PLC controller – including all I/O signals, sensor data, etc. Among other benefits, this permits use of the PLC control software for testing and optimization purposes during the early stages of a project, before the real facility even exists. This lets system integrators shorten project cycle times drastically and recognize and correct potential errors much earlier. Thanks to the integration of the virtual robot controller, the robot simulation can be done exactly as in reality and it can be done on the basis of a back-up of the real controller. This way the complex, expensive and not always available integration of RCS modules can be avoided.
Manufacturer-Independent Offline Programming: The Perfect Fit for OEMs
CENIT will also show the remarkable degree of integration that can be achieved in path welding. Comprehensive welding strategies and methods are available parametrically, and the software supports adaptive processes (measurement of component position, seam tracking, etc.). A live demo of an integration with FANUC‘s RoboGuide will showcase the perfect teamwork between the manufacturer’s software and manufacturer-independent offline programming. The FANUC RoboGuide acts as a virtual controller, working with the 3D programming and simulation software FASTSUITE Edition 2 in order to achieve an even more realistic simulation.