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CenFRA turning the 'virtual' into a reality for the food and drink industry

CenFRA Ltd, Europe's only centre for food robotics and automation is setting the UK food and drink industry alight through the application of new, sophisticated discrete event computer simulation technologies. These are enabling businesses to successfully evaluate and quantify, at very little cost, the benefits and implications of integrating different automation techniques into new or existing production lines on a "virtual" scale without creating any disruption to current manufacturing operations.

One northern based food giant, who for contractual reasons cannot be revealed, has already taken advantage of CenFRA's latest simulation techniques resulting in impressive financial savings and practical paybacks.

CenFRA was originally approached by the food producer for advice on how to assimilate new automation and robotic solutions into existing production lines at one of its major manufacturing sites. 

With the help of this latest highly advanced discrete event simulation software package, CenFRA's experienced team of specialist engineers were able to create an interactive 3D computer model of the factory layout that included technical details on the existing production equipment. Using this virtual, representation they could then advise on the best automation solutions, whilst simultaneously identifying any unforeseen obstacles and highlighting potential areas for improvement.

This simulation technique helps to recognise how different process changes would affect particular factory areas and provides accurate and reliable virtual models according to the food manufacturer's existing production set up or intended future arrangements, without the need for expensive physical mock-ups.

The food manufacturer's principle engineer commented: "It is interesting that this type of technology has been around for years and yet its uptake amongst food and beverage producers has lagged far behind other industry sectors. Having experienced the benefits of discrete event simulation first hand, I would recommend all food processors, looking to make factory changes, to adopt this approach before considering or committing to any physical additions or alterations.

"CenFRA provided us with several tailor made affordable solutions to choose from, which would not have been feasible to undertake with actual machine trials. All the ideas were presented in a highly visual, effective and accurate 'life-like' simulation reproducing very precisely all aspects of our business and how we operate."

Discrete event computer simulation produces virtual replicas of factory floor space and allows food and drink manufacturers to examine how the proposed integration of automation systems will work in reality. This innovative capability is an invaluable addition to the industry as it is able to confirm that the desired impact of any proposed installation can be achieved without physically disrupting current manufacture or any other areas of production.