Virtual stations - A controller within a controller
The Virtual Station is one of the core parts of the Power Focus offering and a key component of Atlas Copco’s Smart Connected Assembly Ecosystem. Acting as a digital version of the Power Focus 6000 controller, the Virtual Station connects to the Power Focus platform, selecting, activating and monitoring specific tightening programmes within the workstation to ensure precise, repeatable accuracy within a fast cycle time.
March 21, 2024
The Virtual Station enables a single controller unit to manage up to six tools from 12 different Atlas Copco tool families via a common controller online platform. Atlas Copco’s industrial tightening solutions cover all assembly needs on the production line, ranging from clutch tools to corded nutrunners, which can all connect to a single controller.
Virtual Station also helps manufacturers to reduce cost and complexity by requiring just one power cable to the factory infrastructure, a single ethernet connection and IP address for each controller and workstation. This has the added benefits of reducing energy consumption and better utilisation of floor space. While only one IP address is needed for the Power Focus 6000 controller, each Virtual Station communicates individually to the manufacturing execution system (MES), so from the MES perspective it is the same as connecting to multiple controller units and tools.
Requiring only one piece of software for communication, the Power Focus platform facilitates straightforward software updates with simple tool verification and protocol change validation. Changes in behaviour between tools are also minimised. Faster and simpler software changes at the workstation level also enable manufacturers to refine the assembly process more efficiently, making it easier for factories to adapt to changes required.
Through its Smart Connected Ecosystem and the Power Focus controller platform, Atlas Copco strives to be the assembly manufacturing partner of choice, helping customers solve challenges and improve efficiency with data collection, line management and quality assurance.