The end of debugging – first time right commissioning of new machines.
What if control engineers had the insight to predict run-time problems before power is applied to a new machine? Could commissioning a control solution become bug free? Sysmac Studio offers an advanced solution to the time-consuming process of debug and troubleshooting involved with the development and implementation of a new control system.
Every control engineer has experienced that nervous moment when commanding a machine to move for the first time. What is really going to happen? Did I account for everything? Is my sequence of operations correct? The commissioning phase can be the defining moment of a project. Customers demand results for their investment and when delays and problems surface during the early stages of machine operation, confidence is compromised.
No more surprises at start-up
Sysmac Studio provides a new weapon against unforeseen start-up behaviour by providing emulation of all CPU unit functions. Standard program simulation is a useful debugging feature, but visualising the machine motion has many additional advantages. The new 3D Simulation tool offers a programmer the opportunity to see the physical movement and machine sequence that is a direct result of the code and configuration chosen for implementation. The machine concept becomes more of a reality when a virtual 3D machine simulation works in real-time. Sysmac Studio not only gives users the power to simulate the machine, it provides an easy interface that does not require specialist knowledge to use. This new debugging feature creates a higher level of confidence, reduces overall machine integration time and translates to cost savings during development and commissioning.
What is 3D Simulation?
Sysmac Studio provides common machine models like X-Y-Z orthagonal robots, rotary motion and conveyors, all customisable to match a unique machine setup. Create a program sequence in one of the available IEC 61131-3 programming environments, build a machine model, push play and watch the new machine come to life – no waiting for hardware. To simulate motion control accurately, Sysmac Studio provides instructions to create virtual external signals such as positive/negative limit switch, home proximity, external latch and intermediate stop input signals. Motion alarm and warning instructions can be implemented as well to provide the programmer with additional fault recovery testing measures. The data trace feature gives a high level of detail and displays a time chart graph in parallel with 2D or 3D path markers. The simulation results are recorded in a data trace file, allowing closer examination of the performance to guarantee proper operation. Previously simulated results can also be compared to actual run-time performance. The 3D model operation can be saved to an AVI file for simple viewing of the motion concept for other users. Combining 3D motion simulation with the CPU emulator gives the programmer utilities to assess the correct sequencing, optimum path control, minimum execution time and other critical operations. As a result, the gap between machine concept and operation is dramatically reduced.
Shorter lead times mean increased profitability
Machine development should be fast and predictable. Sysmac Studio offers a new tool to reduce time to market for a total solution with increased performance and usability. New innovations like 3D virtual machine modelling and sequence simulation bring user confidence during all phases of an automation project.
For more information contact Terry McIntosh, Omron Electronics, 086 066 7661, terry_lynn_mcintosh@eu.omron.com, www.industrial.omron.co.za
| Tel: | +27 11 579 2600 |
| Email: | info_sa@omron.com |
| www: | www.industrial.omron.co.za |
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