The OPC Foundation, in collaboration with CESMII, has announced the launch of a OPC UA Cloud Library Joint Working Group (JWG).

Moving computing from the cloud to the edge increases the performance, trustworthiness and efficiency of industrial IoT applications, according to a technical report from the Industrial Internet Consortium.

Most networks today communicate via the Internet Protocol (IP) – the backbone of the Internet. This includes modern machines comprised of complex subsystems with PLCs, HMIs, Barcode Readers, Motors etc.

Industrial automation and control is a primary beneficiary of the networking megatrends that have been shaping the future of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Industry 4.0 technology initiatives for more than a decade.

John Browett, General Manager of the CC-Link Partner Association (CLPA) – Europe, looks at how TSN supports convergence and transparency, and what solutions businesses can adopt.

Single Pair Ethernet work continues with the aim of toughening up this evolutionary new technology for as many application scenarios as possible. But reduced cable weight, miniaturization and simplification of the connection technology will only come into play with achieving continuity with the overall infrastructure.

Industrial network infrastructure is a valuable business asset. Investments in legacy networks require a clear migration path to optimize return on assets while not missing out on performance enhancements. A robust, well-executed physical layer is foundational to assuring this asset continues to deliver value.

Two key challenges need to be addressed when building a stable PROFINET application over a WLAN infrastructure. The selected WLAN solution must support L2 forwarding in different configurations, and wireless latency and jitter need to be minimized to meet the requirements of the PROFINET application.

New operational concepts are being developed to drive EtherNet/IP deployment to low-end constrained, in-cabinet devices such as contactors and push buttons.

Uniform positioning standard for industrial products from different vendors is now available. PI (PROFIBUS & PROFINET International) will be handling worldwide coordination and technology management.