January 24, 2019
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.
Efficient use of digital twins
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.
Transfer models to hardware quickly
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 visualized live in B&R Scene Viewer.
With Canadian manufacturing suffering from a growing labour shortage, the participation of industry in skills development is emerging as a vital component in hiring and retention.
The needs are stark: The Canadian Exporters and Manufacturers Association says almost 40% of its members have jobs they can’t fill. Five years from now, 60% expect to be short-staffed, especially when it comes to skilled trades. Statistics Canada forecasts the country’s labour force growth rate will remain below 0.2% for the rest of the decade, below replacement levels.
This growing shortage is affecting companies of all sizes. Already, some manufacturers acknowledge losing out on contracts because they can’t find the manpower to fulfill them.
In reality, the challenge is two-fold: to replenish and expand the workforce to help close the gap between the number of job seekers and vacancies through 2030 when the last baby boomers reach age 65, and ensure workers get opportunities throughout their careers to upgrade or add to their skillset as current technologies evolve and new ones emerge. Festo, through Festo Didactic, one of the world leading provider of equipment and solutions for technical education, intends to help Canada meet this challenge on both fronts. In essence, the approach Festo has always taken is that the learning never stops.
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New Product
Emerson recently introduced the ASCO™ Series 209 proportional flow control valves, which offer the highest standards of precision, pressure ratings, flow characteristics and energy efficiency available in a purpose-built, compact architecture. With this combination of size and performance, Series 209 valves allow users to precisely regulate the flow of fluid in a wide range of devices that require exacting performance, like those found in the medical equipment, food and beverage, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) industries.
Accuracy, response time and repeatability are critical in high-precision flow control applications, such as controlling tool speed in dental chairs, the flow of steam in coffee makers, water flow in cooling systems and hydrogen flow in fuel cells. Series 209 valves have low hysteresis (less than or equal to 5%), excellent repeatability (less than or equal to 1%) and high sensitivity (less than or equal to 0.2%) that contribute to their precision.
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Featured Product
Teledyne FLIR Integrated Imaging Solutions is pleased to announce the all new Ladybug6— the latest addition to its field proven Ladybug series. Ladybug6 is the leading high-resolution camera designed to capture 360-degree spherical images from moving platforms in all-weather conditions. Its industrial grade design and out-of-the-box factory calibration produces 72 Megapixel (MP) images with pixel values that are spatially accurate within +/- 2 mm at 10-meter distance.
“The new Teledyne Ladybug6 is designed for mobile mapping and all-weather inspection projects requiring excellent image quality and high resolution,” said Mike Lee, Senior Product Manager at Teledyne FLIR. “With the addition of Ladybug6, we are now pleased to offer a wider variety of spherical cameras with higher resolutions ranging from 30 MP to 72 MP.”
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