Automated and digital testing and qualification

The increasing acceleration and digitalization in intralogistics can quickly become a major challenge. This is particularly the case when supplying production areas work more slowly than the subsequent final module production. In such a case, the SpiraTec Group company supported the customer with the adjustment and implemented a storage system in the material flow that ensures continuous production. Specifically, this involved a high-bay warehouse system with corresponding interlinking (conveyor technology) as a storage system.

The SpiraTec Group was able to score points with its many years of expertise and was awarded the contract to develop a digital real-time solution and provide support for the engineering phases up to the FAT.

Project goals

Time-consuming tests of processes are to be automated and, if necessary, made more efficient using an acceleration factor
The results are documented automatically and tamper-proof at every step
Engineering processes are accelerated without additional personnel resources

Characteristics

Digital in the process

Plan processes digitally

Software qualification

Automated testing

Automated documentation

Technical realization

Development of a solution based on the interpretation of the planning documentation provided during the planning phase (specifications).
Starting batch procedures and tracking the process steps on the digital simulation model.
If it is necessary to operate the systems, this is done via the real visualization – which is possible both virtually and in reality on the operating computer.
Start test sequences in real time and in automatic mode.
Each step is logged exactly and documented directly in the documentation of the process description as a test protocol.
Shorter test times for slow processes.
The behavior of both systems was kept synchronous so that no software changes or even distortions occur.

Project summary

Thanks to the software solution developed by the SpiraTec Group and a parallel engineering process of automation and digital twin, customers are able to shorten project lead times, increase software quality and secure their planned production start dates. Software developments and changes are qualified with test management. Every step and every transition in the process is automatically tested and documented. After testing, the documentation with the TARGET process is automatically updated with the ACTUAL status. In addition, the commissioning processes can be carried out automatically. Another plus for the customer: A test run can now also be carried out and documented for every change in the project in the future.