B&R presents complete portfolio for batch-size-one manufacturing.
At the Hannover Messe trade fair, B&R will show how a conventional plant can become a smart factory in Hall 9, Booth D26. B&R enables the automation of all production areas and allows them to interact seamlessly. B&R’s portfolio makes it easy to implement efficient, high-quality production down to batch size one, ensure safe human-machine collaboration, and obtain a clear overview of machine performance data in the cloud. B&R’s first cloud application allows OEMs to collect data from their global fleet around the clock and view it in a convenient dashboard. They can use it to make well-targeted machine upgrades, offer next-level service and unlock new revenue streams. The cloud application indicates where maintenance is necessary and provides the basis for tailor-made maintenance service.
In addition, B&R will be exhibiting the world’s first machine vision solution to be fully integrated into the automation landscape. B&R’s machine vision solution includes intelligent cameras, image processing algorithms, and an innovative selection of lighting technology. With these products, B&R serves a broad spectrum of applications: from simple machine vision sensors to high-end smart cameras. Ready-made software components are available for creating applications with minimal new programming.
B&R is the first manufacturer of intelligent track systems to introduce human-track-collaboration. Visitors to the B&R booth will see how five integrated safety functions allow humans to work directly alongside the track with no safety barriers – without impairing productivity.
B&R MapleSim Connector simplifies model-based machine development
B&R simplifies model-based machine development with the new B&R MapleSim Connector. It considerably reduces the time spent modeling machine components. Machine functions are easy to program and deploy. B&R MapleSim Connector is seamlessly integrated in the B&R Automation Studio environment.
B&R MapleSim Connector makes it efficient for B&R customers to integrate the MapleSim tool from Maplesoft. MapleSim creates a highly accurate, dynamic model of the machine based on CAD data in STEP format. All forces and torques are modeled with great precision, allowing the model to be used as a digital twin for component sizing. The physical model is also available as a functional mock up unit for virtual commissioning of the machine software in Automation Studio. This helps avoid the risk of costly design errors.
B&R MapleSim Connector offers two export functions for efficient use of digital twins in the development process. On the one hand, it is possible to export simulation data to optimize the sizing of servo drives, motors and gearboxes using tools like ServoSoft. Alternatively, the model built in MapleSim can be exported as an FMI file, including the CAD data.
The model built in MapleSim can be used as a simulation model in Automation Studio and transferred directly to the B&R control hardware. The result is hardware-in-the-loop simulation, where the machine’s behavior is emulated in real time to create a controlled environment where the machine software can be tested safely. In this environment, all control parameters can be manipulated and the temperature behavior of the drive can be simulated. The behavior of the digital twin is visualised live in B&R Scene Viewer.
B&R is an innovative automation company with headquarters in Austria and offices all around the world. On July 6, 2017, B&R became a business unit of the ABB Group. As a global leader in industrial automation, B&R combines state-of-the-art technology with advanced engineering to provide customers in virtually every industry with complete solutions for machine and factory automation, motion control, HMI and integrated safety technology. The innovative spirit that keeps B&R at the forefront of industrial automation is driven by a commitment to simplifying processes and exceeding customer expectations. B&R is constantly redefining the future of automation engineering.