IIoT Framework as a bridge between OT and IT
OT meets IT – making data available, readable, and evaluable everywhere
Collected data is often stored in data silos in a production system because it is not present in the right format or because there is no connection to higher-level systems.
Our IIoT Framework provides you with:
A simple and reliable connection for data exchange between OT and IT.
Limitless possibilities for expansion with an open platform for which no programming knowledge is required.
Standardized data available in real time that can be evaluated historically due to the time stamps.
Bringing together different requirements, standards, and settings
Data are generated and collected in OT and IT. Based on historical development, however, data exchange is only possible to a limited extent due to the different communication types and technologies, and is also very time-consuming and cost-intensive. Driven by a change in technology, a steadily growing number of devices are being added within production.
To connect the two environments, a bridge is needed that connects the two worlds without forcing them to change. Furthermore, this bridge must enable unlimited and holistic data handling at all times, so that all OT and IT devices and systems can communicate and exchange data with each other. To meet the requirements of the Digital Factory, flexible adaptability to changing conditions should be made possible.
IIoT Framework – unlimited data exchange with open interfaces
The IIoT Framework from Phoenix Contact is a scalable, open, and highly flexible interface between OT and IT. The PLCnext-based software includes three basic components:
IIoT Framework The IIoT Framework itself is the main component of the solution and includes the basic library with basic functions, elements, and visualization systems. Within this framework, the collected data is standardized and stored. The scalability enables the use of a Raspberry Pi right through to a high-performance PC. In addition, it is also possible to link to our intelligent MLnext Technology solution for detecting anomalies via predictive maintenance in a production.
In-connectors The in-connectors (in-apps) are responsible for collecting the data in the OT and IT environment. Here, one connector is required for each communication protocol. The cyclically collected data is stored without conversion and with a time stamp.
Out-connectors The out-connectors (out-apps) are responsible for further processing the data. When requested by an OT or IT device, the standardized data is converted to the respective output format and sent at the requested intervals.
IT is short for information technology and includes the availability and control of data and its hardware and software. It focuses on the confidentiality and integrity of data.
In contrast, operational technology, OT, is the hardware and software that controls and monitors production and its processes. It is characterized by long product life cycles, a diversified device/manufacturer landscape, different communication protocols, and strict environmental regulations. Here, sensors and actuators connected to a PLC keep track of every action within the infrastructure. State-of-the-art wireless technologies such as Bluetooth 5.0 and WLAN are also used. The focus is on the safety of personnel and the maximum reliability and effectiveness in the production process.
The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) encompasses the complete monitoring and control of processes in the Digital Factory. Regardless of the industry in which the IIoT comes into play, it always follows the latest technologies and thus covers the requirements for digitalized production.
