The ultimate goal of our MODUL4R project is to advance manufacturing through robust and autonomous modular production lines and supply chains.
One of the key objectives of nxtControl, a leading expert within our MODUL4R consortium, is to maximize interoperability due to integration of legacy PLC systems. Using IEC61499 CPS-izer technology or new embedded IEC61499 controllers from multiple vendors, will enable the seamless implementation of a modular, distributed and hardware-independent IEC61499 control application system.
CPS-izers are building the bridge to existing legacy controllers through integration into a distributed IEC61499 control system. Furthermore, a near real time OT/IT service-communication interface to the IT level will be designed, interacting with the computation middleware layer. The figure below illustrates the IEC61499 software architecture for the Edge-Gateway, presenting the three functionalities included in a Composite Automation Block (CAT):
• North-Bound-Connector (for MQTT, OPC UA) to the IT-Layer, the Cloud-Layer.
• IEC61499 Control-Logic extensions for the Legacy PLC.
• South-Bound-Connector (MQTT, OPC UA, Websocket) to the OT-layer, the legacy PLC.
What are key-advantages gained?
• Protocol independent adapter interface for each connector.
• Support of multiple connectors (OPCUA, MQTT etc.).
This software gateway and CPS-izer follows IEC61499 design guidelines, made by Schneider Electric, and realized with the EcoStruxure Automation Expert. This software gateway and CPS-izer will be integrated and tested in selected demonstrators within MODUL4R.
