Table of contents:
- Picture gallery
- Construction virtually tested and optimized
- Changes based on simulation results
- Lead time and time-to-market reduced
- On virtual paths against the corona crisis

Video: Minitec Optimizes Conveyor Routes With A Digital Twin

2023 Author: Hannah Pearcy | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-11-26 11:39
In mechanical and plant engineering, it is still common today that the control of a system is only programmed after the mechanical parts have been completed. Accordingly, the interaction of mechanics, controls, sensors and software is tested for the first time during commissioning. If errors occur, it can be expensive
In the age of Industry 4.0. For this reason, Minitec is increasingly relying on the concept of the digital twin, which is created using CAD data, for customer projects. It is the virtual equivalent of a system, in which all physical, mechanical and electronic properties of the real machine are stored. In this way, comprehensive visualizations and tests can be carried out at an early stage of the concept and product development. This not only saves time, but also helps to identify and correct errors at an early stage.
Picture gallery
Construction virtually tested and optimized
A large coffee roaster now also benefited from this approach. For a long time, this has been using a conveyor system from Minitec in logistics, which also had to move the coffee packages as part of the transport. Special feature: The parcels had to be turned forward with the floor, for which a deflection rail was previously used. However, because the cycle time was to be increased from 40 to 60 units per minute, this method was no longer suitable.
The Minitec technicians developed a “turning star” for this. It is a circular construction in which the coffee packs are turned forward when the blades are turned. Before implementation, however, it was necessary to check whether this also works in practice. Precisely because of the high clock speed, the aim was to ensure that there would be no problems later, for example that the packages would not get stuck or burst.
Smart engineering day
Five steps to a digital twin
Changes based on simulation results
Minitec initially redesigned the solution with a digital twin. In this way, the real behavior could be completely simulated in advance. Based on the knowledge gained, various changes were implemented for the model system until it worked smoothly. For example, guide rails were installed so that the coffee packets stay on track and do not fall off the conveyor belt.
digitalization
Battery construction with a digital twin increases quality, output and performance
Lead time and time-to-market reduced
The effort paid off: In the finished system , the process worked without any problems right from the start. Incidentally, this approach also reduced the overall lead time for the project. “With the digital twin, we offer our customers the virtual commissioning of systems before the actual implementation. The concept allows us to visualize ideas at an early stage, to check their meaningfulness, to fix errors and to reduce the test effort. The time-to-market for projects can be significantly reduced, the customer saves time and money,”explains Minitec project manager Peter Müller.
On virtual paths against the corona crisis
In view of the latest developments relating to the corona virus, events are being canceled or postponed in a row. The future can belong to digital platforms that can compensate for this development. With the "Industrial Generation Network", the Vogel Communications Group presents a solution for professionals in the industry. As a digital supplement, the platform enables extensive networking: the focus is on digital encounters and establishing contacts, as well as product presentation and thematic exchange. Tools such as making appointments and video conferences enable professionals to network, make appointments and do research close to the respective branch. The platform thus replaces the currently severely restricted face-to-face communication, especially at trade fairs.
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