7 research outputs found
Fieldbus technology in industrial automation
http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/Fieldbus technology in industrial automation is not only relatively complex because of the number of solutions possible, but also, and above all, because of the variety of applications. Ironically, these in turn are responsible for the multitude of solutions available. If the analysis of the basic needs is relatively standard, as they will always involve connecting sensors, actuators, and field controllers with each other, the options in architecture are numerous and can impose the need for certain services. The required performances themselves and the quality of service expected fundamentally depend on the applications. This article traces this technology from its beginnings, which go back to the first industrial networks in the 1970's. The principal stages of development are recounted, from the initial requirement specifications to the current state of international standardization. The diverse technical solutions are then analyzed and classified. In particular, we study the temporal aspects, the medium access control protocols and application relationships
A new approach to the development and maintenance of industrial sequence logic
This thesis is concerned with sequence logic as found in industrial control systems, with
the focus being on process and manufacturing control systems. At its core is the assertion
that there is a need for a better approach to the development of industrial sequence logic
to satisfy the life-cycle requirements, and that many of the ingredients required to deliver
such an approach are now available.
The needs are discussed by considering the business case for automation and
deficiencies with traditional approaches. A set of requirements is then derived for an
integrated development environment to address the business needs throughout the
control system life-cycle.
The strengths and weaknesses of relevant control system technology and standards are
reviewed and their bias towards implementation described. Mathematical models,
graphical methods and software tools are then assessed with respect to the requirements
for an integrated development environment.
A solution to the requirements, called Synect is then introduced. Synect combines a
methodology using familiar graphical notations with Petri net modelling supported by a set
of software tools. Its key features are justified with reference to the requirements. A set of
case studies forms the basis of an evaluation against business needs by comparing the
Synect methodology with current approaches. The industrial relevance and exploitation
are then briefly described.
The thesis ends with a review of the key conclusions along with contributions to
knowledge and suggestions for further research