Abstract: A method is provided of emulating and visualizing machine tool behavior for a programmable logic controller logical verification system for manufacturing a motor vehicle. The method includes the steps of constructing a mechanical model. The method also includes the steps of viewing motion of the mechanical model in a motion viewer and determining whether the motion of the mechanical model is acceptable. The method further includes the steps of replicating the motion previously defined with PLC code if the motion of the mechanical model was acceptable and using the accepted motion of the mechanical model to compare the behavior of the PLC code relative to the accepted motion.

Abstract: A method and apparatus that includes determining differences between a process model and an actual process are used as a diagnostic system for the actual process. The process model includes elements from a design process to provide a “known good” condition for evaluating the differences. Initial input states to the process model are the initial input states to the actual process. Output information correlated to states in the actual process is provided by controls, such as programmable logic controllers, that manage the actual process.

Abstract: A method is provided for application of part flow model for a programmable logic controller logical verification system. The method includes the steps of constructing a part flow model, determining whether the part flow model is acceptable, and using the part flow model to test PLC code to build a manufacturing line.

Abstract: A method is provided of using a neutral event specification file for manufacturing line analysis. The method includes the steps of constructing a neutral event specification file having a specification format including at least one event, wherein each event has a name, description, at least one signal, and at least one action. The method also includes the step of executing a manufacturing line analysis model using the neutral event specification file.

Abstract: A method is provided of using a neutral event specification file for manufacturing line analysis. The method includes the steps of constructing a neutral event specification file having a specification format including at least one event, wherein each event has a name, description, at least one signal, and at least one action. The method also includes the step of executing a manufacturing line analysis model using the neutral event specification file.