CoSiMa – Connecting simulations, machines and tools to optimise the production process of polymeric products

The main objective of the CoSiMa project is to realize an innovative automatic change of settings on injection moulding machines in real time. Traditionally, the setting of molding process depends on the experience of the machine operator and its a rather challenging task. For this reason, the common goal of the project partners is to develop a connection between the injection moulding simulation software, injection moulding machines and moulds that will, together with the sensors, allow direct monitoring of the process parameters, simulate their improvements and, depending on the simulation results, provide automatic change of machine settingsin accordance with Industry 4.0 guidelines. In this way, in the field of tooling and processing of polymer materials, we will be able to significantly modernize and raise the added value to a higher technological level.

For the successful implementation and control of the three mechatronic building blocks within a single production cycle, the development of a dedicated optimization system will be necessary, which will enable control of process parameters and activation of changes on the injection moulding machine. In the process of developing the connection between simulations, moulds and machines, toolmakers and plastic processors will be actively involved.

The role of TECOS, besides coordinating the CoSiMa project, will be primarily on the work in the activities related to industrial research of individual mechatronics components of the optimization system and the experimental development and testing of the optimization system in the industrial environment.

Contact person in TECOS: dr. Dragan Kusić

The investment is co-financed by the Republic of Slovenia and the European Union under the European Regional Development Fund.