Try it before you buy it: More SMC technologies now available in Automation Studio™

A paradise for tinkerers: Designers can now draw from an even wider selection of SMC pneumatic solutions, simulate custom circuits in Automation Studio™, and, if necessary, integrate them into complete systems. (Photo: SMC Deutschland GmbH and Famic Technologies Inc.)

The conceptualization and planning of pneumatic circuits are becoming even easier: SMC is increasing its product catalog, available to operators in the design and simulation software Automation StudioTM by Famic Technologies, by 60 percent. The highlight of this expansion is the long-awaited and frequently requested ISO solenoid valves from SMC.

The two companies are working together to support planners and machine builders with combined expertise in simulation and application. Users of Automation StudioTM can now create and simulate pneumatic circuits with more than 800 components from SMC.

Application expertise meets simulation know-how

"As developers of powerful systems and services in software engineering and industrial automation, Famic Technologies is the right partner for Industry 4.0 applications," says Christian Ziegler, Manager of Digital Business Development at SMC. "In times of increasing digitalization, the advantages of virtual project planning and simulation of circuits are obvious: users can assemble suitable technologies themselves and test individual solutions. That's why we combine our technological know-how with Famic Technologies' simulation expertise." If the virtual pneumatic circuit fits and functions properly, the designer can export the corresponding components directly as a parts list. "This saves time and money for users because they don't have to painstakingly search for parts in catalogs," explains Richard Gagné, Quality Manager at Famic Technologies. "Additionally, it makes work easier for the pneumatics experts at SMC because they know that the parts lists assembled this way have already been tested in the virtual environment."

One of the particularly practical features of Automation StudioTM is the full integration of all technology modules, from pneumatics to human-machine interfaces. This allows entire systems to be assembled, animated, and validated virtually. Richard Gagné adds: "The simulation offers additional benefits. For example, the virtual circuit diagrams can be subjected to comprehensive start-up tests in a safe environment. This gives designers unique insights into the functionality of their planned systems."

Faster and more comfortable to product maturity

With the integration of additional SMC solutions into the Automation StudioTM catalogs, both planning and implementation of complete systems become even easier—and the applications more efficient and productive. Christian Ziegler is pleased with the successful collaboration: "Together with Famic Technologies, we have created a real win-win situation. We benefit from increased visibility of our products, Famic expands its technology offerings, and designers can now access our comprehensive portfolio of powerful and reliable pneumatic solutions." Richard Gagné is also convinced of the cooperation: "Virtual planning and design already play a key role in the realization of new machines and systems today. Our partnership with SMC demonstrates the potential that still lies ahead." In the next step, SMC and Famic Technologies also plan to include the remaining components in the online catalog—system designers will then have digital access to the electrical automation technologies of the leading manufacturer, partner, and solution provider, and can directly incorporate them into their planning.