Methodology for digital planning and virtual validation of retroactively automated assembly systems

Disruptive technologies such as lightweight robots, autonomous mobile robots as well as powerful sensor and control technologies enable flexible and economical automation of production processes. Therefore, they are suitable for retroactive automation of existing systems. During retrofit, the conversion or commissioning time is a critical factor, which is why exact planning and virtual validation are necessary. Novel, digital tools offer extensive assistance for this task. This article describes a systematic and application-oriented methodology for continuous digital planning and validation of these automation solutions up to a turnkey robotic automation system. A validation of the proposed methodology in an electronics production scenario is described.