TNA Solutions launches XR-based digital twin platform for food manufacturing facilities
The extended reality (XR) solution, tna intelli-assist™, enables food manufacturers to create digital replicas of production facilities for enhanced project planning and implementation, achieving 95% planning accuracy whilst eliminating reworks.
TNA Solutions has introduced an industrial XR platform that creates digital twins of food manufacturing facilities, allowing teams to validate equipment installations and manufacturing plans virtually before physical implementation. The system, called tna intelli-assist™, integrates extended reality technology with traditional computer-aided design to enable precise spatial planning and clash detection.
Digital twin implementation
The platform generates comprehensive digital replicas of manufacturing sites, including detailed representations of equipment, utilities and building infrastructure. These virtual environments allow engineering teams to simulate the integration of new machinery or entire production lines, identifying potential spatial conflicts and utility interference issues before installation begins.
According to Natasha Avelange, Global Extended Reality Manager at TNA Solutions, the technology builds upon existing Industry 4.0 frameworks: “Food manufacturing has readily adopted Industry 4.0 technologies due to the efficiency, productivity and repeatability benefits they offer. Building on this with XR allows the human element of food manufacturing to be enhanced, with creativity, productivity and problem solving brought together without barriers.”
Virtual collaboration
A key technical feature of the platform is its ability to host multiple stakeholders simultaneously in the virtual environment. Users can access the digital twin through either VR headsets or desktop applications, enabling real-time collaboration regardless of physical location. This functionality facilitates immediate troubleshooting and stakeholder consultation during the planning phase.
Simulation and validation tools
The system incorporates several integrated technical components for manufacturing validation. The simulated environment modules enable comprehensive equipment integration testing, while sophisticated clash prevention algorithms identify potential spatial conflicts before they show up in the physical installation. Design validation tools provide thorough assessment of manufacturing plans, complemented by real-time measurement and scaling capabilities. The utility interference detection systems ensure that new installations will not conflict with existing infrastructure.
The platform employs a structured implementation process, beginning with the creation of a digital twin of the existing facility. Engineers can then virtually install new equipment or modify existing layouts, with the system automatically detecting potential issues. This methodology allows for multiple iterations and configurations to be tested without physical modification of the facility.
Thiago Roriz, Chief Operating Officer at TNA Solutions, emphasises the technical advantages: “By harnessing the power of VR, we are not only enhancing operational efficiency but also empowering our teams to collaborate more effectively, train in immersive environments, and optimise production in real time.”
User interface
The system features an artificial intelligence-driven interface, designated as TIA™, which guides users through the platform’s functionality. This virtual assistant manages various technical aspects of the system, including navigation of the virtual environment and tool selection. It also facilitates measurement operations, collaboration session management, and comprehensive documentation functions.
Technical specifications
The platform operates through either VR headsets or desktop interfaces, offering comprehensive functionality for facility planning and modification. The system enables multi-user virtual environment access and real-time collaboration, supported by integrated measurement systems and clash detection algorithms. Utility mapping functionality and cross-platform compatibility ensure widespread applicability across different manufacturing environments.
The system has demonstrated significant technical benefits across several operational areas. Project planning accuracy has improved to 95%, while rework requirements have been completely eliminated. The platform has shown particular effectiveness in spatial conflict detection and has contributed to reduced installation timeframes. Users report improved stakeholder communication and more efficient approval processes throughout project implementation.
This technology is a significant advancement in food manufacturing facility planning and modification, combining extended reality capabilities with traditional engineering principles to improve project implementation accuracy and efficiency.
- For more information, visit: tnasolutions.com
