Digital Twin in LASAL

The LASAL software development environment from SIGMATEK supports model-based development and virtual commissioning with the Digital Twin.

In this process, together with 3D models of the mechanics, a complete digital twin is created for the physics-based 3D simulation. It acts as a valid basis for the detailed software development, electrical planning and design of a machine or plant. This makes it possible to virtually represent, simulate, test and validate all development steps from planning to commissioning - whether individual machine functions or complete systems.

One advantage of this model-based development with the Digital Twin is to parallelize and thus accelerate the development. In addition, there is no need to wait for the real mechanics and hardware to be available before tuning and testing. As another essential step towards better machines, there is the possibility of virtual commissioning. The Digital Twin replaces the real machine or system. This is initially simulated completely as a computer model with "software in the loop". Only then the transfer of the programs to the real control hardware follows ("Hardware in the Loop").

To make this possible, all outward I/O object classes have been significantly extended in the LASAL development tool. These "advanced I/Os" no longer necessarily need real connections at their "outer" end, but can work in various modes with predefined, simulated or values created in the Digital Twin. This helps shorten development time, minimize development risk, and eliminate rework. Machine and system manufacturers can thus develop better machines faster and secure their market position.

The application possibilities of the Digital Twin, however, are far from exhausted with commissioning. This can run during operation to detect deviations and take the appropriate actions. The error tolerance as well as the lifespan of the machine is therefore increased and predictive maintenance is enabled.