The modular design of the BionicCellFactory is also reflected in the control architecture: each module is regulated by a controller CPX-E from Festo. This means that the five process steps can be commissioned either together or separately and can easily be exchanged if there are any production modifications.
Experts can use the dashboards on the corresponding control panel to monitor and change individual parameters of the process steps. Data is exchanged between the modules via OPC UA and enables the entire BionicCellFactory to be regulated efficiently.
The BionicCellFactory as a model factory is the universal blueprint for complete production systems of the future. It can be scaled to any size with the help of our automation technology. To meet future demand for renewable raw materials, bioreactors with a capacity of several thousand litres are needed. Expertise in process automation is necessary to ensure that the systems can reliably produce the required amounts of biomass.
We develop intelligent control cabinet concepts for bioreactors with our customers and are continuing to expand our portfolio. The process systems enables us to ensure stable and precise process control with maximum productivity. This includes optimised aeration and feeding strategies, control algorithms, soft sensors for calculating the biomass in real time and system concepts for bio-based production processes.
Highly qualified technical staff and biotechnologists are not easy to find everywhere. Our experts at Festo Didactic are already analysing the need for new knowledge in order to define interdisciplinary networks and to establish innovative training professions, courses of study and additional qualifications in the fields of biomechatronics, biointelligence and sustainability.