An interactive control using 3D models

It presents the 3D model design of a real prototype system with movement simulations using SOLIDWORKS and the development of the interactive GUI button controls using OMRON PLC. The SOLIDWORKS 3D modeling and simulation software is utilized to construct a 3D model representation of the real prototype hardware with actuators. The actuator movement simulation of the 3D model has also been developed and controlled with the LabVIEW interface software. The actuators of the real prototype are wired to the PLC and are also controlled with LabVIEW by connecting the PC to the PLC through a serial USB to RS-232 communication adapter. The HostLink protocol is automatically used by the PLC when communicating with the LabVIEW “VISA serial communication” features block. The developed LabVIEW program and GUI will send C-mode commands to the PLC to trigger an output at the click of a button. Lastly, both the program or system of the 3D model simulation and PLC control are integrated to allow both the actuators to move simultaneously.