SWITZERLAND: BHB Waschanlagen Vertriebs has supplied a tram washing system to Zürich which is the first that the German compnay has developed using both a digital twin process and simplified low-code programming to make it possible to plan the complex system with less effort and greatly reduce commissioning times.
The washing plant has four rather than the usual two washing cars, individually movable using automation technology from Mitsubishi Electric to offer short washing times and high energy efficiency.
The 20-person machine manufacturing team was supported by ATINA, a Stuttgart-based engineering firm and experienced software specialist from Mitsubishi Electric’s partner network.
ATINA’s low-code programming eliminates the need for hard-coded, line-by-line programming. Instead the washing programs can be easily parameterised using Excel spreadsheets without in-depth programming knowledge. With 200 lines of text instead of 4 000, the programs are clearer and easier for service personnel to understand. This aims to save time, reduces sources of error and facilitate subsequent revisions.
