The integration of automation and enterprise systems requires a change in the architecture of open control systems. From Advantech's point of view, the level of integration between automation and enterprise systems can only be accomplished through Internet technology. The seamless level of integration between plant floor and office floor has not been achieved in all automation systems. However, many suppliers are approaching this goal.
The key element of the seamless integration is a common network architecture, which breaks the traditional layers (enterprise, plant information, control, device, level, sensor, etc) that require a data gateway as an interface to communicate between different layers. Industrial Ethernet is regarded as the most appropriate network to accomplish the task in industrial automation.
It is believed that IP/Ethernet protocols will progress beyond the control layer into the field layer. Placing remote I/O with IP/Ethernet connections on the shop floor is economical. Advantech believes that over the next five years, Internet protocol over Ethernet will dominate major field connections. Advantech ADAM-6000 series comprise industrial-grade Ethernet hubs/switches/fibre optics for an infrastructure Ethernet solution in industrial automation environments.
Control strategy moves to field devices
It is a trend to move I/O to remote locations to reduce wiring cost. Remote I/O is becoming smarter and equipped with control functions. Today, the trend is for control to move from today's 16 to 64 I/O multiplexers to the smallest remote I/O units, with perhaps as few as four I/O in the near future.
With built-in control algorithm and mathematical functions, ADAM-6000 modules are innovative smart I/O devices similar to the sensor layer in automation applications.
Web-enabled technology on factory floor
As Internet technologies and standards have rapidly developed over the past decade, Web-based control methodologies now obviously represent a powerful opportunity for extending efficient network-based management techniques to encompass non-IT real-world assets.
ADAM-6000 series are equipped with built-in Web pages to fulfil the purpose of browsing anytime, anywhere via the Internet. Moreover, ADAM-6000 allows users to configure user-defined Web pages to meet the diverse needs in various applications. With this powerful function, ADAM-6000 series break the boundary of traditional multilayer automation architecture and users can access field data simultaneously, which enables a seamless integration between plant floor and office floor.
HMI has provided a friendly operator interface for discrete control and sharply reduced the cost and complexity of automation systems. A Web server has been added to most HMI software and the browser allows access to HMI displays from remote locations via the network. The end user is able to have a view identical with the process from any Internet connected computer anytime, anywhere. ADAM-6000 can be fully integrated with standard HMI software which supports Modbus TCP/IP, including Advantech Studio.
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