Experimental Design and Simulation of a Fly-Cutting Plant for Academic Environment Practices

Test plants or laboratory prototypes are essential for developing training activities in engineering. In the field of automation and control, simulators or high-fidelity equipment models commonly used in industrial processes are necessary. These tools allow engineering trainees to gain experience working with devices similar to those they will encounter in their professional contexts. This paper presents the design and simulation of a fly-cutting plant for academic use. A 3D model was developed in SketchUp, incorporating features typical of industrial plants. The system’s simulation was carried out in MATLAB R2023b using mathematical modeling. The primary contribution of this work is the design of a low-cost, compact industrial prototype that includes a conveyor belt and a continuous cutting mechanism, enabling the understanding and operation of large-scale industrial processes. Performance tests were conducted using MATLAB, Simulink, and Code Composer Studio. Subsequently, operational and cutting tests were performed using classical control techniques. Additionally, the design features of the fly-cutting plant, which can be easily implemented for process control training activities, are detailed.