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Sam A8 avatar image
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Sam A8 asked Adna Lima commented

PLC

I built a simulation model for a manufacturing plant. Now I want to connect it to a PLC when I built the process flows for the machines I did not consider any variables or emulation tools. I saw the material on the manual for the PLC but I still do not know where to start? or what should I do in order to start the process for connecting it to the PLC? what type of server is needed? Should I write a new process flow? should I adjust it ?how can I do it? what will I need ? and what should I do because I still have to idea

FlexSim 22.2.1
plc emulationplc
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Jacob W2 avatar image Jacob W2 ♦ commented ·

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Adna Lima avatar image
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Adna Lima answered Adna Lima commented

Hello , Sam!

Firts of all, you can read the Emulation topic on Flexsim website: https://docs.flexsim.com/en/21.2/Reference/Tools/Emulation/Emulation.html

Second you need to identify your PLC and the communication protocol that must be used (I use Modbus TCP/IP, and with OPC UA I have problems in communication)


After read about Emulation you can add the variables, according with your necessity. To WRITE things in PLC you use a Variable Sensor, and to READ data you use a Variable Control. This is an example from my list of variables. You can add logical inside this properties or using a process flow, I still studying about it.


The Register# is given by the PLC programmer, I recomend a colaborative job.


For now is it, I hope that help you.


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Sam A8 avatar image Sam A8 commented ·
Thank you Adna!

but I still have some basic questions, so after setting the connection when you start adding the variables and the actions would you first make the simulation model as example you want to sit the photoeye as input do you first connect it and add trigger and then go to the emulation tool and add it as a variable? and for the output if the separator separates totes from boxes what output variable you use exactly for that ?

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Adna Lima avatar image Adna Lima Sam A8 commented ·

Hi Sam, sorry for the late response.


About making a simulation model, you can choose if you want to start creating variables or connect after with emulation. I started my model without variables and after I put on Emulation.


About the separator I don't understand, dependes what are you wanted from simulation. Can you send me your model for me understood better your doubt?


I work with a Hardware team that helps me with some variables, to choosing the best type and create some on PLC.

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