Simulators, Optimizers

Simulators, Optimizers February 24, 2020

Process simulation benefits for manufacturers

Process simulation can be an invaluable tool to compare alternatives and justify the cost for manufacturing and manufacturing-related processes.

By Philip Lyman, PhD

Simutech Multimedia has developed a point-and-click game that is designed to provide a real-life simulation of what could realistically happen on a manufacturing floor. Courtesy: Chris Vavra, CFE Media & Technology

Simulators, Optimizers October 11, 2019

Teaching engineers skills through video games and simulation

Using video games that are designed to teach engineers how to act in certain safety situations can provide training and experience for plant-floor operations, which can help narrow the skills gap.

By Chris Vavra

For a standard turbine fan such as the diagram shows here, a typical simulation would only include sections S1, R2 and S2. New research from the GUIde 6 Consortium is now showing that including R3 is important to the accuracy of the simulations. Courtesy: Shreyas Hegde/Duke University

Simulators, Optimizers May 26, 2019

Guiding vibration simulations for turbines

The Duke-led GUIde Consortium develops faster, more accurate simulations of turbine blade vibrations to help aeronautical engineers develop safer jet turbines with lower maintenance costs.

By Ken Kingery

A new “particle simulator” developed by MIT researchers improves robots’ abilities to mold materials into simulated target shapes and interact with solid objects and liquids. This could give robots a refined touch for industrial applications or for personal robotics— such as shaping clay or rolling sticky sushi rice. Courtesy: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Robotics April 23, 2019

Particle simulator developed to help robots better predict and grasp objects

MIT researchers have developed a learning-based particle simulator, could give industrial robots a more refined touch and help them make predictions about interacting with solid objects and liquids.

By Rob Matheson

Figure 9: Second order control loop Bode analysis can help if the first order gain was insufficient. Courtesy: ControlSphere LLC

Diagnostics, Asset Management April 19, 2019

Using IEC 61131-3 programming languages for simulation

See five paybacks of simulation. Use IEC 61131-3 programming languages and modern programming tools to easily integrate simulation to development workflow.

By Gary L. Pratt, P.E.

MathWorks Matlab/Simulink environments enable the design and simulation of new applications, such as this hexapod, as well as advanced algorithms that can be used in the machine controller to control the physical hexapod. Courtesy: Beckhoff Automation

Simulators, Optimizers April 8, 2019

Machine design concepts improve automation and controls simulation

Virtual design tools and automation software intersect to save time and costs in machine commissioning so engineers can spot potential flaws before implementation.

By Daymon Thompson

Through an iterative process of testing and verification supported by diagnostic tools and 3-D graphics, the model is refined continually as components are sized. Courtesy: B&R Automation

Simulators, Optimizers April 2, 2019

Plug and model simulation tools for automation software development suites

Simulation, modeling, and virtual commissioning are becoming easier to apply on different levels in automation. Interfaces to third-party simulation tools may be built into your software development suite already.

By John Kowal

Figure 1: Output control with a permissive is shown in this output PLC logic, typical for an actuator. Various addresses need to be in the correct state for the Z_Axis_Lower_SV output to energize. These can be manipulated by the programmer, or in the case of the HMI pushbutton, it can link to an HMI program running on the programming computer and be pressed. Courtesy: Automation Consulting

Simulators, Optimizers March 29, 2019

How simulation helps automation and controls

The controls often must be programmed for automated machinery and systems before hardware exists, but controls engineers can use simulations to test syntax, proper tag linking and addressing, and code functionality.

By Frank Lamb

Simulation can provide detailed visualization of a line in an existing production facility. Courtesy: Dennis Group

Simulators, Optimizers March 28, 2019

Optimize production line design with simulation modeling

Simulation modeling, used properly, can identify and remove risks, maximize value, and help produce successful outcomes. Ask these five questions to ensure the model reflects realistic behavior and constraints.

By Christy Starner

Simulators, Optimizers November 27, 2018

Leveraging process simulation throughout the plant lifecycle

Using simulation for plant design, process automation system validation, and operator training will help optimize plant operations.

By Scott Michel