Blender is the free and open source 3D creation suite. It supports the entirety of the 3D pipeline—modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing and motion tracking, even video editing and game asset creation. Advanced users employ Blender’s API for Python scripting to customize the application and write specialized tools [Add-ons]; Examples from many Blender-based projects are available in the showcase. - text taken from the Blender Foundation website, brackets added.
Taking advantage of Blender's extensibility, Machine-FX adds a suite of automation engineering tools for machine design, proof of concept, simulation, and testing that utilize Blender's rendering, physics, and simulation capabilities to help develop real-world engineering solutions. Machine-FX will be available on the vibrant add-on marketplace, BlenderMarket.
The MFX-01 module adds OPC UA Client functionality to Blender. Through a user-friendly interface, MFX-01 connects to an OPC UA server, enabling users to browse server nodes that can be linked to 3D model objects within Blender for animation, simulation, and data visualization. Integrating live automation data into Blender unlocks vast potential for machine design, proof of concept, and simulation, utilizing Blender's impressive capabilities.
Leveraging one of Blender's most powerful features, MFX-02 introduces a collection of simulated, industry-standard machine vision lights and cameras to generate photo-quality images for testing and validating machine vision software—eliminating the need for costly machine vision hardware. With MFX-02, users can easily prototype machine vision systems, experiment with various lighting and camera configurations, and validate machine vision concepts before committing to hardware investments.
Another powerful feature of Blender is the physics engine. MFX-03 features an extensive library of motors, gearboxes, linear slides, ballscrews, and other industry-standard machine motion components, all meticulously modeled and optimized for animation and physics simulation. In addition to testing machine motion sequencing, MFX-03 incorporates mass and heat algorithms, enabling precise load inertia motion sizing, operational wear-and-tear assessments, and analysis of various other physical parameters.
The kinematics module integrates an industrial robot library, to connect with external kinematics models via the OPC UA Client or internal kinematics models for animation and simulation purposes. With multi-axis control, a range of end effectors, and simulated physics, it becomes a powerful tool for solving complex engineering challenges.
A comprehensive transport library, MFX-05 adds an extensive selection of conveyors, linear transport, and planar motion systems. Similar to the kinematics module, the transport systems are designed to be seamlessly linked to external automation software via the OPC UA Client interface or utilized directly within Blender for animation, simulation, and proof of concept design. With the integration with the Bullet physics engine, MFX-05 is ideal for advanced transport system development.
The MFX-06 module introduces models for process control, including a comprehensive collection of tanks, vessels, valves, pumps, piping, agitators, mixers, and the associated sensors and instrumentation required to simulate a complete process control system. All components are optimized for animation and simulation within Blender. When integrated with the OPC UA Client for real-time data, the module creates an ideal environment for visualization, testing, and development.
Choose the option that fits your needs.
