Our Project

 

The aim of the project is to validate the use of a simulation software package, Siemens Process Designer and Process Simulate, to create a simulation-based automotive manufacturing facility controlled by a virtual Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). Traditionally, a simulation is connected to an external PLC in order to test the control program in a virtual environment. It is hoped that demonstrating the use of a single platform can reduce difficulties encountered with this manual connection and streamline the process of Virtual Commissioning.

 

The software is an industry standard-package available within the Siemens Tecnomatix Software Suite and is heavily utilised at Volvo Cars Corporation. In contrast to the traditional approach of Virtual Commissioning whereby additional PLC hardware is required, Process Simulate offers an in-built virtual PLC feature that can eliminate the need for additional equipment. This has many potential advantages in that programming language translators are not required and the time-consuming task of debugging the control program is reduced. This is one of the main features that the group will test through the creation of a series of Virtual Factories. Additionally, and in partnership with Volvo Cars Corporation, the team will explore a new concept within Virtual Commissioning known as 'Smart Components'. These are advanced CAD models in which logical commands are pre-programmed and the models stored in a library for repeated use.  Results of the investigations, along with a user-friendly training guide produced by the team, have been documented in a collection of papers as found here.