The versatility of virtual models - A practical case of Virtual Commissioning

Sammanfattning: The commissioning phase is the last phase of a construction project when all subsystems come together to be tested as a whole, working as a single entity. This phase is often the most crucial and time-sensitive part of the project as the construction occupies space in the factory and inflicts down¬time in processes without adding value. Faults found in this phase can be time-consuming to correct and exhausting for the integra-tor who has to work intensely over extended periods. A few software changes might solve minor faults, but finding a major design fault at this stage could be cata¬strophic. The cost of change rises as the project progresses, and at this stage, all parts are manufactured and delivered. Virtual commissioning could reduce these risks by enabling tests to be made earlier and continuously during the project in a more agile man-ner. Robots and PLC-code can be run together through emulations, and the cell's behavior can be verified. Any issues that arise can calmly be re¬solved in the office, far away from the stressful commissioning on a tight schedule and busy factory floor. On the day of the physical commissioning, the tests should give the last confirmation of the coher-ence with the virtual model. The models used for the virtual commissioning can be used in earlier pro¬ject phases. They can be used for layout planning, presentation aid, oper¬ator training, and evaluating proposed process changes. This thesis investigates, analyzes, and practically applies the concept of virtual commissioning and the use of virtual models connected to it.