ANSYS BLOG
November 20, 2019
Optimize Industrial Automation Systems Using Digital Twins
Engineers can have a tricky time changing up a production line. To keep up with market demands, they have to adjust existing factory automation systems to produce the latest designs and implement new processes.
Updating a production facility could shut down a line for weeks, even months, as engineers perform physical tests, maintenance, modifications and safety checks.
Engineers can easily update factory automation systems if they use simulation-based digital twins.
To simplify this process, Ansys and Rockwell Automation have partnered to offer engineers the ability to simulate industrial automation technologies.
The idea is to enable engineers to design and test the updated manufacturing line using simulation-based digital twins. By optimizing the line digitally, engineers can reduce downtime and physical testing.
Engineers will also be able to use digital twins to gain insights from the factory floor that can improve product designs early in development. This enables them to design products that are easier to assemble and manufacture.
How Simulation-Based Digital Twins Improve Industrial Automation Systems
Digital twins enable engineers to predict manufacturing issues that can arise as they run and update the facility. This technology can improve a factory’s lines, product yield and throughput.
Rockwell Automation’s experience in industrial automation merged with simulation-based digital twin technology, from Ansys, will create a streamlined workflow to develop product designs, automations, manufacturing lines and lifecycle management assessments.
An engineer uses a digital twin to optimize the performance of a robotic arm.
These tools will also help engineers update manufacturing plants that are already operational. The data collected by the facility can be used to create the digital twin which can then be used to run virtual what-if scenarios.
In fact, the partnership won’t just benefit the customers of Rockwell Automation. The company will also use Ansys software to optimize its own products and process developments. It will use simulation to improve product quality, reduce physical testing and enhance systems while maintaining a low budget.
To learn more about the partnership, read: Rockwell Automation and Ansys Announce Strategic Partnership, Driving Quicker Time to Market and Operational Efficiency for Customers.