Simple Multi Portal Crane in Siemens Tecnomatix Plant Simulation

 Simple Multi Portal Crane in Siemens Tecnomatix Plant Simulation

Project Files (GitHub) : nachikethboin/Simple-Multi-Portal-Crane-in-Siemens-Tecnomatix-Plant-Simulation

Step 1: Add the Crane Library

Begin by starting Plant Simulation and selecting Manage Library. In the Libraries tab, find Standard Libraries and select free of charge. Then, check the box for the Crane library and click OK. This action adds the Crane library to your class library, enabling access to the specialized crane objects for your project.

Step 2: Set Up Your Model

• Insert the Source and Stations: Add a Source object, three processing Stations, and a Drain object to your model.
• Add the Multi-Port Crane: Go to the Crane tab and select the multi-port crane. This opens the dialog to insert length-oriented objects.
• Position the Crane: Place the crane so that it covers two of your stations. You can adjust coverage later as needed.

Step 3: Adjust the Crane’s Orientation

• Show Manipulators: Right-click the crane object and select Show Manipulators. Dragging a manipulator lets you change both the direction and length of the crane, making it easier to fit your layout requirements.
• Edit Crane Properties: Double-click the rail or the portal of the crane to open its properties dialog. Here, you can:
• Set the runway width (e.g., 7 meters)
• Adjust the portal’s width (e.g., 10 meters)
• Configure the overhang (e.g., 3 meters)

                       

Make sure the portal crane can reach all necessary stations before moving on.

Step 4: Define the Control Logic

• Add the Method Object: Insert a Method object and rename it to, for example, onExit.
• Assign as Exit Control: Select the Method and drag it onto a station. This action assigns it as the exit control for that station. Repeat for any other stations as needed.
• Edit the Method: Double-click the Method icon to open the source code. The control logic needs to:
1. Access the crane portal object.
2. Wait until the portal is idle and able to accept new commands.
3. Order the portal to transfer the part from the calling station (use the ? symbol for the station in context) to another station (e.g., Station 2).
• Apply and Close: Press F7 to apply your changes, then close the editor.

Step 5: Run the Simulation

• Open the Event Controller: Double-click to open.
• Run in Real Time: Check the real-time option and set the simulation speed multiplier as needed (e.g., 10x real time).
• Start the Simulation: Observe how the portal crane automatically moves parts between stations according to your logic and configuration.