Articles
Tecnomatix unveils software for process design and shop floor controller programming
January 11, 2001
It enables engineers to design manufacturing processes in a 3D virtual environment and then introduce control data into the virtual cell. One of the major features of this tool is its automatic generation of programmable logic controller (PLC) code, which can be simulated and verified before it's downloaded to the live PLC that resides on the shop floor.
The module already has been tested and approved in several pilot projects. The software allows mechanical design and control departments to work simultaneously and share manufacturing information. Moreover, the software boasts a universal design and can be used with all automobile manufacturers.
With eM-PLC, engineers will gain more control over the design processes, allowing them to increase their speed, consistency, and reliability. The solution reduces the production ramp-up time by moving the testing and commissioning process from the shop floor onto the control engineer's desktop. In addition, shop floor personnel training and creating documentation can be done offline, which also cuts time and expense.
BMW, one of the automakers that participated in piloting the software, was pleased with the outcome. According to Alfons Kiermeier, program manager/PLC code generator of BMW, "The pilot project, where senior control engineers from our production facilities were involved, showed us the feasibility of the concept. The PLC code generation and the cell simulation are interesting aspects for BMW to reduce the time for planning and commissioning, as well as proving the feasibility of the production cell within cycle time." Kiermeier said that BMW said it would continue to work on developing the product "until it fully supports BMW's requirement and workflow."
"By partnering with Tecnomatix, we are able to provide a unique environment for automating process design and control programming processes. Typical production cells are governed by PLCs and our customers will be able to visualize and optimize their functionality and behavior early in the production-engineering phase. This will help accelerate the engineering process, cut time to market, and reduce costs," explained Thomas Schott, VP of Automotive System Business at Siemens Automation and Drives Group.
"Our collaboration with Siemens enhances our e-Manufacturing capabilities by adding the definition of controls to the process model of product, resources, and operations," said Harel Beit-On, president and CEO of Tecnomatix. "Tecnomatix was a pioneer of robotic off-line programming, which is today a standard practice at leading manufacturers. We are proud to lead the way again with off-line programming of PLCs—a major step in the goal of cutting ramp-up time. With a product like eM-PLC, we continue to give our customers the competitive edge they have come to expect from our comprehensive product offering."
Tecnomatix Technologies provides e-Manufacturing solutions that develop, communicate, and operate optimal manufacturing processes across the extended enterprise to help manufacturers in the automotive, aerospace, electronics, PCB, and heavy equipment industries.
Siemens Automation and Drives Group supplies standard products for the manufacturing and process industries and the electrical installation industry as well as system solutions.
Tecnomatix Technologies, Inc., 39810 Grand River Ave., Suite 100, Novi, MI 48375-2108 USA. Tel: 248-471-6140. Fax: 248-471-6147.
With contribution from Nancy Katz
Managing Editor, Metrology World.com
E-mail: nkatz@verticalnet.com
Source: Tecnomatix Technologies
