Simulation and digital twin
Using digital technologies to evaluate the logic of our automation solution, simulation and emulation are employed.
Simulation and emulation are important tools for Qubiqa because they allow our engineers and designers to test and evaluate the performance of a machine before it is built.
This can shorten the time and expense involved in creating and testing prototypes, assist in detecting and fixing design flaws, and optimize the design for effectiveness and efficiency.
Both simulation and emulation can be used to optimize the design of a machine, reduce the time and cost of prototyping and testing, and improve the reliability and performance of the final product. They can also be used to train operators and maintenance personnel, as well as to develop and test control systems and software.
What's the difference?
Simulation
With virtual PLC
Simulation involves creating a virtual model of a machine or system and using computer software to simulate its operation and performance under different conditions. This can be used to test and optimize the design, as well as to predict how the machine will perform in the real world.
Emulation
With hardware PLC
Emulation involves creating a model of a machine or system using hardware components, such as microcontrollers and sensors, that can be controlled and monitored using computer software. This allows engineers to test and debug the machine in a controlled environment, as well as to evaluate its performance under different operating conditions.
Potential benefits of simulation and emulation
Earlier design validation
Identify potential system and software issues before installation.
Software and logic testing
Test PLC programs, control sequences and selected interfaces against the virtual system.
Capacity and flow analysis
Explore throughput, buffers, routing and potential bottlenecks.
Virtual FAT preparation
Prepare and carry out selected test scenarios before the complete physical system is available.
Operator training
Use the virtual environment to support training in normal operation and selected failure scenarios.
More prepared commissioning
Bring additional system knowledge into physical testing, installation and commissioning.
Machinery
Customers often have specific requirements for the programming, operation and safety functions of the machinery we deliver.
Conveyor system
Simulation/emulation can be particularly useful for testing conveyor systems because it allows engineers to test the system’s behavior under a wide range of conditions and scenarios without setting up all of the components for a physical FAT.
Emulation can also be useful for identifying and troubleshooting problems with the conveyor system, as it allows engineers to simulate and analyze the system’s behavior in detail, helping them to identify the root cause of any issues and develop solutions to fix them. In this specific case we actually both had a virtual as well as a physical FAT.
Some things must be tested physically
Not every aspect can be reproduced accurately in a virtual environment. Material behaviour, slippage, foils, mechanical interactions and selected safety functions may still require physical testing.
Want to understand more before you build?
Talk to Qubiqa about how simulation and emulation can support system design, software testing, production-flow analysis and preparation for physical validation.
Installed worldwide
Global experience, local understanding
We have delivered automation and material handling solutions to production sites across the world.
Our international experience gives us insight into different production environments, requirements and ways of working.
Years of experience
In insulation automation and logistics
Years og experience
In converting automation and logistics