The fischertechnik learning environment is used for learning and understanding industry 4.0 applications in vocational school and training and for use in research, teaching and development at universities, in companies and IT departments. The simulation depicts the ordering process, the production process and the delivery process in digitized and networked process steps.

Factory photo

The Training Factory consists of the factory modules storage and retrieval station, vacuum gripper robot, high-bay warehouse, multi-processing station with oven, a sorting line with colour detection, an environmental sensor and a swivelling camera. After delivery of raw materials, they are stored in the high-bay warehouse and after ordering in the dashboard, the workpieces pass through the respective factory modules and the current status is immediately visible in the dashboard.
The integrated environmental sensor reports values for temperature, humidity, air pressure and air quality. Due to the vertical and horizontal swivel range, the camera can see the entire plant and can therefore be used for web-based remote monitoring.
The individual workpieces are tracked by NFC (Near Field Communication): each workpiece is given a unique identification number (ID). This enables the current status of the workpieces in the machining process to be tracked and made visible.

Control

There are three different versions of the fischertechnik Training Factory 4.0 24V, which differ in the scope of delivery of the controller. This variant is the "plug and play" solution. Here, the control unit is included and everything is already wired.
The Training Factory 4.0 24V Complete Set with PLC S7-1500 is controlled by a Siemens S7-1500. This is included in the scope of delivery. Both the model and the PLC are pre-wired so that the PLC can be conveniently connected to the model via two connecting cables. A ready-written example programme (as structured text, ST) is included in the scope of delivery. The programme was created on the basis of a Siemens S7-1500 and was written in Siemens TIA Portal V.16.
A fischertechnik TXT 4.0 controller is also installed. This is supplied with power via the adapter board and provides the connection to the fischertechnik cloud. The TXT 4.0 controller also communicates in MQTT to the IOT gateway (Raspberry Pi), which in turn translates in OPC-UA to the PLC controller. In this way, the 9V-based components such as the environmental sensor, the USB camera, the brightness sensor and the NFC reader can be addressed via the MQTT interface and read out by the PLC. Even more interesting, however, is another function of the IOT Gateway, namely the possibility of an optional connection to a separate cloud. Thus, Training Factory 4.0 offers maximum flexibility for the respective user.

Software

The PLC program for controlling fischertechnik Training Factory 4.0 was created as structured text (ST) based on a Siemens S7-1500 and can be called up in the eLearning portal. It can also be viewed, used and downloaded free of charge at Github.com/fischertechnik.
Of course, the Learning Factory can also be controlled with other PLC models and brands and individual solutions can be programmed and implemented by the user. It may be necessary to make small adjustments to the example program, which can then be implemented independently.

fischertechnik Cloud

The connection to the fischertechnik cloud is established via the WLAN router which is integrated in the learning factory. The use of the Chrome or Firefox web browsers is recommended. www.fischertechnik-cloud.com.
The servers of the cloud are located in Germany and ensure that the strict European requirements apply for the storage of data. Personal data is protected in an account with password access, which uses the very secure "OAuth2" industry standard. All data sent to the cloud is encrypted with certificates (https standard).

The fischertechnik Production Line 24V simulates a series of linked manufacturing steps. At the beginning, the workpieces are loaded onto a rotary indexing table with four stations using a pneumatic slider from a magazine. The rotary indexing table transports the workpieces step by step to the drilling and welding stations, where the workpieces are processed. In the final station of the rotary indexing table, a vacuum suction gripper removes the processed workpieces and places them on a conveyor belt. This conveyor transports the workpieces to the palletizing unit, where 3 workpieces are collected and then pushed onto a pallet.

The Production Line 24V includes a comprehensive PLC course that uses the physical model to create a lasting learning experience for PLC programming. At the end of the course, the learner will be able to wire the Production Line 24V independently and program it in function block diagram or structured text. In a safe, yet industry-real environment, the learner builds up know-how that can be used for real machine programming and commissioning. The didactic concept covers all the essential steps from wiring using a circuit diagram and creating a flowchart to programming (FBD or SCL) and commissioning the model. Thanks to the action-oriented approach of this training model, participants not only develop a deep understanding of PLC programming, but also the ability to master complex control tasks independently. The model promotes hands-on learning, creativity and problem-solving skills, optimally preparing participants for the demands of industrial practice.

Control system:

• 24V model prepared for control with a PLC

• PLC requirements: 8 digital inputs and 10 digital outputs 24V

• PLC programming course designed for structured text and function chart

The fischertechnik Bending Machine 24V simulates the transportation and bending of workpieces. The model can be used in either semi-automatic or automatic mode. In semi-automatic mode, the unbent workpieces are manually inserted into the transport carriage. In automatic mode, the transport carriage positions itself automatically under a magazine that provides the workpieces. The loaded carriage then transports the workpiece to the bending machine, where it is bent. The transport carriage then takes the bent workpiece to the removal point.

The Bending Machine 24V includes a comprehensive PLC course that uses the physical model to create a lasting learning experience for PLC programming. At the end of the course, the learner will be able to wire the 24V bending machine independently and program it in function block diagram or structured text. In a safe, yet industry-real environment, they will build up know-how that can be used for real machine programming and commissioning. The didactic concept covers all the essential steps from wiring using a circuit diagram and creating a flowchart to programming (FBD or SCL) and commissioning the model. Thanks to the action-oriented approach of this training model, participants not only develop a deep understanding of PLC programming, but also the ability to master complex control tasks independently. The model promotes hands-on learning, creativity and problem-solving skills, optimally preparing participants for the demands of industrial practice.

Control system

• 24V model prepared for control with a PLC

• PLC requirements: 8 digital inputs and 4 digital outputs 24V

• PLC programming course designed for structured text and function chart

The 6-axis robot from fischertechnik enables learners to take an in-depth look at industrial robotics and prepare themselves practically for the demands of the modern working world. The realistic six-axis robot is supplied fully assembled. It can be equipped with either a vacuum suction gripper or a gripper and can be converted quickly and easily. Both end effectors are included. Three of the six axes are controlled by encoder motors, three others by digital servos. Programming is carried out using either Python or ROBO Pro Coding. A teach-in interface in ROBO Pro Coding also allows convenient training of various positions. The TXT 4.0 controller serves as the robot controller. This hands-on experience makes it possible not only to acquire theoretical knowledge, but also to develop practical skills. Through the accompanying didactic material and interaction with our models, learners develop analytical thinking, problem-solving skills and practical teamwork in addition to technical know-how.

Using 12 versatile and partially expandable models, students in upper secondary education explore key topics in information technology and artificial intelligence. Based on real-world scenarios, they independently develop solutions to complex, problem-based tasks.
A powerful controller, modern sensors and actuators, a user-friendly app, and the proven fischertechnik components provide hands-on access to advanced technologies. Core topics include object recognition, automated decision-making processes and machine learning, as well as creating and training own neural networks.
This competence-oriented learning approach fosters not only technical and methodological understanding, but also problem-solving skills and teamwork – all at a level that prepares students for the demands of an increasingly digitalized world.