- Project reference
All-in-one slicer software
A common software platform for all high-performance cutting machines
Challenges
GEA’s range of slicers – the UniSlicer, MegaSlicer and OptiSlicer – had previously been operated using their own individual control software. Functions were developed multiple times, bugs had to be fixed individually in each codebase, and operation and behaviour varied from machine to machine.
The aim was to create a standardised software platform based on B&R, on which each type of slicer is simply a configuration comprising standard functions, variants and options. This is entirely in line with the principle of „configure rather than copy“.
ITQ Solution
ITQ is developing the new platform in collaboration with GEA. This ensures that everything – from the software architecture and PLC software right through to the test and pipeline infrastructure – is developed as a single, integrated whole. The basis is a four-level architecture in accordance with OMAC/PackML (Machine, Station, Module, Driver), featuring standardised interfaces, a consistent command model and shared libraries for basic functions, drives and motion control.
The entire machine runs on the development PC: the PLC software runs in the B&R simulation tool ArSim, linked to a digital twin in iPhysics and the original GEA SmartControl HMI. This allows functions to be developed, commissioned and tested without the need for a physical machine. Quality is ensured through unit tests, integration tests using Robot Framework and a static code analysis against the coding guidelines – carried out locally and automatically within the Azure DevOps pipeline.
Results & Benefits
The UniSlicer is the first machine based on the new platform to be commissioned at the customer’s site. Further slicer models will be added gradually.
Further benefits:
- A single codebase for all slicers – new features and bug fixes benefit every machine
- Uniform architecture, operation and testing across all machine types
- Shorter commissioning times and reduced risk through development using a digital twin
- Verifiable quality through automated testing following every change
- can be adapted for use with other GEA machines, e.g. packaging machines
Tools and technologies used
FAQ
What was the main challenge of the project?
The three types of slicer – UniSlicer, MegaSlicer and OptiSlicer – each ran on their own control software. Functions were developed multiple times, bugs had to be fixed individually in each codebase, and the operation and behaviour differed from machine to machine. The aim was to create a common platform on which each slicer would be treated as just one configuration.
What solution was implemented?
A unified software platform based on B&R, featuring a four-level architecture in accordance with OMAC/PackML, standardised interfaces and shared libraries. Development and testing are carried out using the digital twin: ArSim simulation, iPhysics model and the original GEA SmartControl HMI, validated by automated tests in the Azure DevOps pipeline.
What role did ITQ play in the project?
ITQ is developing the platform in collaboration with GEA, covering everything from the software architecture and PLC software to the test and pipeline infrastructure. In doing so, ITQ has played a key role in shaping the architecture, the digital twin and test automation.
What specific results were achieved?
The UniSlicer is the first machine based on the new platform to be operational at the customer’s site; further slicer models will follow in stages. Four separate code bases have been consolidated into a single, automatically tested solution.
What added value does the solution offer the customer?
New features and bug fixes benefit all slicers. The architecture, operation and testing are standardised, commissioning takes less time and involves less risk, and quality is verifiable with every change. The platform can also be adapted for use with other GEA machines, such as packaging machines.
Details:
Further information:
