Virtual commissioning of drive solutions

Since the publication of the FMI (functional mock-up interface) technical standard in 2010, it has become more and more common to work with simulation models in system planning. NORD DRIVESYSTEMS also uses data-based simulations for the development of its components and drive solutions. The system provider is now using this know-how to help its customers achieve greater efficiency and availability of its drive systems even in the planning phase by offering a digital service: With digital twins of its drives, NORD enables virtual commissioning.

Users can configure drive systems or components for their requirements as usual via the myNORD customer portal. They select components and their features such as performance, mounting options or outputs. Then, they can request a simulation model for the fully configured drive system. The process was developed by NORD in cooperation with the software company Machineering from Munich, which specialises in virtual commissioning.

The simulation models are inserted into a similarly simulated system. In this environment, the drive configurations can be extensively tested. If adjustments are required, they can be easily implemented based on the data. Errors can be remedied in the early stages of development, avoiding potential later damage. Only once the virtual drive system has been validated by the customer, it will be manufactured and delivered by NORD.

As the drives are already functionally integrated into the system control at this point, actual commissioning is possible in a very short time. The overall process from configuration to commissioning is reduced from several months to only a few weeks.

Virtual commissioning of drive systems is of special interest for any technically demanding solution. Therefore, NORD particularly focuses on components that play a decisive role in automating production processes. The manufacturer is kicking off the virtual commissioning with its range of high-efficiency IE5+ and IE4 motors, along with the corresponding gear units and frequency inverters. Simulation models will then gradually become available for other NORD product areas as well.

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