Enterprise integration connects the fleet management software to ERP, MES, and WMS systems so jobs can be allocated and scheduled automatically to the fleet in real-time. Virtual commissioning A combination of digital twins and simulation software enables virtual commissioning. In this case, a digital twin is a virtual representation of an AMR. Digital twins can be used to virtually validate the performance of individual AMRs and fleets of AMRs. Virtual commissioning uses robotics simulation software to combine the digital twins of AMRs with a digital twin of the surrounding environment (Figure 5). AMR virtual commissioning can also be used to integrate and coordinate the operation of robots from several manufacturers. During the virtual commissioning process, engineers can quickly and efficiently create multiple scenarios to verify the proper functioning of the entire system, not just isolated AMRs. Virtual safety testing and debugging can also be implemented with digital twins and simulation. Virtual AMRs can be subjected to anomalous situations to test various contingencies and ensure the proper functioning of safety protocols.
Figure 5: AMR digital twins can be virtually inserted into a simulated factory environment for virtual commissioning. (Image source: Siemens)
configuring, and customizing an AMR or AMR fleet into a site. A risk assessment performance is a key requirement within the new standards in accordance with ANSI and ISO standards. The tools for AMR commissioning are also evolving with the emergence of virtual commissioning using digital twins and simulation. This was the first of a two- part series and focused on the implications of the recently released R15.08-2 standard regarding safety, risk assessment, and commissioning of AMRs. The second article is written in anticipation of R15.08-3, which is currently under development and will address the topic of sensor fusion in AMRs.
The ability to implement virtual debugging can speed up the deployment of AMR fleets. Debugging fleets of physical AMRs after deployment is challenging and time-consuming. It involves work stoppages and negatively impacts the productivity of the facility. There are no work stoppages with virtual debugging, and users are assured that the AMRs will perform as expected in the real world.
Conclusion
AMR deployments are becoming increasingly prevalent in a wide range of Industry 4.0 installations. The standards landscape for AMRs is evolving to address requirements for safely and efficiently integrating,
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