OPC UA to Fieldbus Protocol Mapping Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data communication methods between fieldbus devices and control desks in automation systems face challenges in combining the advantages of OPC UA protocol standards with fieldbus protocols, particularly in achieving real-time capable and individually adaptable data communication.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a data communication unit with both OPC UA and fieldbus protocol interfaces, enabling mapping of data communication objects between the two protocols through a mapping unit, allowing for individual adaptation and direct communication between the control desk and fieldbus devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If OPC UA protocol standard is used for data communication between control desk and fieldbus devices, then standardized data communication and information transfer are achieved, but real-time capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
A data communication unit is introduced as an intermediary component that includes both an OPC UA interface and a fieldbus interface. This mediator translates and forwards data communication objects between the two protocols, enabling the control desk to communicate with fieldbus devices through a standardized interface while maintaining real-time capabilities through the fieldbus protocol connection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If companion specifications are used for standardized communication, then manufacturer-overarching device use is facilitated, but individual adaptation of data structures requires great programming outlay
Solution Approach 1:
The data communication unit is designed with universal functionality to support multiple device types and protocols. It can handle standardized communication through companion specifications while also providing individual adaptation capabilities through configurable mapping parameters, eliminating the need for extensive programming outlay for each specific device.
Solution Approach 2:
The mapping specifications in the data communication unit are made dynamic and configurable, allowing adaptation to individual devices without requiring comprehensive programming. The system can adjust mapping parameters on-the-fly to accommodate different fieldbus devices while maintaining standardized OPC UA communication.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for data communication between fieldbus devices and a control desk of an automation system by way of a data communication unit includes a first transmission step of the control desk transmitting data communication objects on the basis of the OPC UA protocol to first and/or second fieldbus device, and a first reception step of receiving the data communication objects on the basis of the OPC UA protocol. The data communication unit maps the data communication objects on the basis of the OPC UA protocol on first data communication objects on the basis of the fieldbus protocol. In a second transmission step, the data communication unit transmits the data communication objects on the basis of the fieldbus protocol to the first and/or second fieldbus device. In a second reception step, the first and/or the second fieldbus device receives the data communication objects on the basis of the fieldbus protocol.