This ATS Project involved developing a process behavior simulation of a Water Treatment Plant for the DSP (Direct Sheet Plant) at a steel giant in The Netherlands.
The aim of the project was to deliver a PICS Pro simulation, including the PICS Pro product, to fully function test the new control system. Duration of development of this simulation; 3 months.
The existing process was controlled by outdated Siemens S5 PLC's. In the new environment, this system was replaced by a GE innovation controller (implementation was not included).
The sales process turned out to be another test of endurance as they say. In 2008 ATS sent the first offer and end of 2011 the order had finally been awarded.
PICS Pro is another product ATS sells from their distribution portfolio with the company Molex.
PICS Simulation® software simulates real-world systems and machines controlled by DCS, PLC and PC control systems. The entire system (communications, sequencing/ interlocking, HMI/SCADA, and alarms) can be tested, all emergency faults can be verified and operators trained prior to the system going operational. With PICS Simulation software, control system errors can be swiftly identified in the office, allowing new processes to be implemented quickly and accurately thereby avoiding the high cost of production downtime. The software allows the creation of a dynamic model on a PC that duplicates the behavior of the I/O devices, providing the control system with simulated device feedback. PICS Simulation software also provides a realistic and versatile testing and training environment for operators.
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