Mr. Wallner, Mathworks would have had a stand at SPS again in 2021. What did you want to show?

Philipp Wallner: The focus is on simulation and data analysis based on our Matlab and Simulink development software. At the stand, we wanted to show how mechanical and plant engineering can successfully use tools - for example for model-based development or for evaluating machine data.

The topic of simulation is nothing new in the industry. Why do you think it is so important for mechanical engineers to engage with simulation models right now?

Wallner : Modern production systems have become increasingly complex over the last few years. One driver for this is the requirement for increasingly flexible production. This complexity primarily affects the software - more specifically, the software that runs on an industrial control system, such as a PLC, on the machine. In order to develop and validate the function of the software, methods of model-based development are increasingly coming into focus.

The systematic use of models and data enables the continuous development of new machine functions.

© Mathworks

What about retrofitting software to the machine during operation?

Wallner: This is a key point: if the electromechanical basis of the machine remains more or less unchanged in the future, the manufacturers are constantly adding new functions to the software. To do this, model-based development must be used to ensure in advance that the machine executes the new function without errors. As soon as the developer has tested the new software in the simulation, he transfers it to the PLC or industrial PC using automatic code generation - i.e. directly from the development process to ongoing operation.

That sounds a bit like DevOps...

Wallner: Yes, DevOps for agile development has been established for years in the field of IT software. A developer continuously transfers the software modules directly from development to operations. The feedback from operations is then fed back into the development process. We believe that DevOps based on simulation models - i.e. 'Model DevOps' - is helpful for the development and continuous expansion of IT software on the one hand, and for complex mechatronic systems such as production machines on the other.

That sounds exciting - but like a dream of the future...

Wallner: Not necessarily. Leading industrial companies such as Krones or Atlas Copco are already using simulation models in the form of digital twins throughout the machine life cycle. This enables them to develop new tested functions in a short space of time and put them into operation.

What role does Mathworks play in this?

Wallner: Developers use our software to efficiently develop and test new machine functions. For example, Matlab, Simulink and over 100 toolboxes to automatically generate C, C++ or IEC 61131 code, establish OPC UA connectivity or for predictive maintenance applications. In addition, our technical contacts in Germany and other locations worldwide have experience from numerous customer projects in various industries. This enables us to support machine manufacturers on their path to digital transformation.

Can interested trade fair visitors discuss their digitalization projects with you?

Wallner: We will be showing examples of virtual commissioning, artificial intelligence and the automated generation of functions for industrial control systems. We will also be available for discussions about digitalization projects in mechanical and plant engineering. I look forward to many interesting discussions at our stand.