Nord Unveils Digital Twin and Virtual Commissioning Technology

[Erkan Teskancan]

Nord Drivesystems, in collaboration with Machineering, has enabled customers to download digital twins and perform simulations and virtual commissioning via their online configuration tool, thanks to their new digital twin and virtual commissioning technology.

Creating a virtual twin or simulating a new system allows designers to test system performance under different scenarios. Although drive systems for electric motors are dimensioned mathematically, the expected performance may not be achieved when loads are applied to the real system.

Nord Drivesystems, a global company offering synchronous or asynchronous AC motors, geared motors, and drive solutions, has made it possible to simulate configured motor drive components with its new digital twin and virtual commissioning technology.

### Digital Twin and Virtual Commissioning Technology

A digital twin is a 3D virtual copy of the actual configured system and can be manipulated. Virtual commissioning, on the other hand, is the execution of control software on this digital twin. This allows designers to test the system in real-world scenarios and optimize control codes by fixing errors.

Nord has enabled the request for a digital copy of the newly configured drive through its myNORD Online Customer Portal, where drive systems are configured. This virtual drive can be programmed and operated with simulation software. The system performance, mounting options, and output power are identical to the original.

### Collaboration and Software Infrastructure

Nord developed the digital twin and virtual commissioning technology with Munich-based software company Machineering GmbH & Co. Machineering specializes in virtual commissioning software and offers simulation packages and hardware solutions for robotics and CNC machine tools.

Machineering's software, called iPhysics, provides a virtual world where machine manufacturers can interact with control software, CAD data, and robotics. This tool is used as a process supporter throughout the machine's lifespan.

### Application Example and Advantages

A machining center uses various electric motors for cutting tool positioning and driving. The cutting tool drive system must adapt to changes in speed and load brought about by different tools and materials. Traditional calculations are insufficient for such applications.

With virtual commissioning, these drive systems can be tested under different scenarios, and performance and lifetime predictions can be made. Designers can replace components that do not meet requirements and repeat the simulation, thereby reducing assembly errors and customer dissatisfaction.

Thanks to simulation software, the design process becomes more proactive, and problems are solved at the design stage rather than in the field.