The Design and Joint Simulation of Software-in- the-Loop for a Digital Mechatronics Teaching Experimental Platform

Currently, numerous vocational colleges have incorporated practical training courses focused on automated production lines. However, due to spatial constraints and insufficient availability of physical equipment, the implementation of mechatronic integrated training platforms within the educational process remains challenging. To address the aforementioned issue, this study based on Software-in-the-Loop(SIL) virtualization technology to design and validate a digital mechatronics teaching experimental platform. This virtual device can serve as a experimental platform for materials sorting within automation-related courses conducted in the computer lab. While developing this digital equipment, both the controlled object and the controller were designed and debugged within a virtual environment. The mechanical structure and mechatronics concept were designed using NX software, the pneumatic circuit were designed and simulated using FluidSIM software, the virtual PLC environment was established using PLCSIM Advanced software, the PLC program and HMI(Human Machine Interface) screens were designed using TIA PORTAL software, and the data communication were achieved through NX MCD signals and PLC tags mapping connection via OPC server. The validation of the simulation for this mechatronics platform is divided into two distinct components: the joint simulation of FluidSIM and NX, and the joint simulation of HMI and NX. Through the method of Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) joint simulation, the simulation results demonstrate that the functionality of various mechatronic course experiments conducted with this digital mechatronic teaching platform has been successfully validated. This digital device can be utilized in the computer lab for educational purposes within courses related to automated production lines. Through this virtual device, while minimizing the need for physical equipment, it simultaneously offers students increased opportunities for practice throughout the learning process, and contribute to the enhancement of course quality.