07 August 2012
British advanced engineering software specialist Emuate3D has joined the e-F@ctory Alliance of Mitsubishi Electric Europe, bringing emulation and simulation software which reduces commissioning time and cost for Mitsubishi controllers.Emulate3D equipment layout models are designed to look and work just like the real systems they represent, providing a valid test bed for the control systems. Users can rapidly create layouts and introduce products into the models for system validation prior to hardware build. The software allows real-time testing of all controls, enabling potential issues to be identified and corrected, and allowing operators to become familiar with the system operation before it even exists in its physical form.Providing engineering designers with a virtual design and commissioning system, Emulate3D enables comprehensive testing of complex control systems to be performed far earlier in the development process. Not only does this accelerate development, it also provides far greater scope for making operational changes that will improve the control system. With all the development and validation work performed so early in the design cycle, eventual installation times for the hardware and the subsequent commissioning times are significantly reduced.The result of using Emulate3D software is more thoroughly tested and robust control systems, delivered on time and to the client’s specification. For the integrator, this means lower implementation and support costs, and for the end user it means on-time production starts, and faster ramps up to full production.Further, Emulate3D software goes on providing benefits throughout the operational life of the control system. As plant and machinery are upgraded, potential hardware and software changes can be evaluated off-line prior to implementation, enabling thorough testing without disrupting production. While Mitsubishi Electric offers its PLC program simulation and test tool (LLT) for the direct testing of the control program, Emulate3D software extends this by adding a dynamic dimension to controls testing with a test environment that is indistinguishable from reality. The software allows users to create a layout from reusable catalogue elements, add control elements, add in core products, connect control tags and equipment to Mitsubishi Electric PLCs, and then run, validate, modify and improve the system.Models can be generated from data read from CAD files, flat files or databases, automating the creation process and eliminating build errors at a stroke.Thomas Lantermann, Senior Business Development Manager at Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V., Factory Automation – European Business Group, comments: “Control system testing can be complicated and costly. The simulation tools that are available for individual devices aren’t always suitable for complex applications, so often controls testing can’t begin until the system is physically complete. But with this integration with Emulate 3D creating an emulation and simulation solution for Mitsubishi Electric controllers, users can reduce the investment risk associated with a new automation project, with comprehensive testing far earlier in the project cycle and at a lower cost that is possible using traditional techniques.”
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