iQ Works provides universal tool for system development

MELSOFT iQ Works has been developed to simplify the challenge of programming and integrating complex, multi-disciplinary production systems. By providing a universal software tool for all aspects of the automation system, design and development are simplified, engineering costs are reduced, compatibility issues are eliminated and performance is increased.

Instead of having to consider multiple programs, devices, networks and settings of the application as individual, unconnected elements, iQ Works brings all these elements together and enables all system development and maintenance activities to be carried out on the entire automation system using a single tool from a single location. It provides an intuitive, easy-to-use environment that makes it simple to drill down into the application, with a seamless graphical front end that brings inherent structure to any project, from the simplest to the most complex automation system.

iQ Works brings together Mitsubishi Electric’s automation software tools, which are MELSOFT Navigator, GX Works2, MT Works 2 and GT Works3. At the heart of iQ Works, the Navigator simplifies the task of system organisation, enabling effortless design of the entire upper-level systems, with advanced functions such as batch parameter setting, system labels, batch read-all and tagging. It also seamlessly integrates the other MELSOFT programs included with iQ Works.

GX Works2 enables configuration, programming and maintenance of Mitsubishi Electric FX and Q series programmable controllers. Users can select from MELSEC Ladder, MELSEC SFC, IEC Ladder or Structured Text programming languages as appropriate for the project, and can mix and match these languages within an automation system. The structured environment conforms to IEC 1131-3 standards, and provides the facilities to store and reuse functions, function blocks, programs and structures within future projects. Additional features also include program revision history and maintenance diagnostic functions.

MT Works2 provides an intuitive environment for motion system design, programming development, start-up, operation and maintenance. It is intended for use with the full suite of Mitsubishi Electric Q Series motion controllers, including iQ Platform products and standalone motion controllers. This latest development of the software provides a program debug mode and a digital ocsilloscope function, simplifying the testing of motion SFC programs, servo programs and mechanical system programs. Other key features include the ability to import, export and visually modify CAM profiles.
GT Works3 is Mitsubishi Electric’s design and configuration tool for GOT1000 series HMIs, providing a simple and intuitive programming environment where users can easily develop their visualisation projects. GT Works3 provides simple navigation around multiple and complex projects. The standard graphics library offers a comprehensive collection of visualisation elements, while an enhanced library tree that helps users find the right element more quickly. After screen development is complete, one touch simulation enables developers to debug and verify their projects using real-time variables and conditions.
By providing a single tool to cover all aspects of system development and maintenance, iQ Works significantly reduces engineering time, cost and effort, which brings down total cost of ownership of the project. Engineers and technicians have access to all system aspects in a single place, and for large scale projects efficiency is further increased by being able to work on the entire system from one location.