Digital twin in process automation
Discover our solutions for easy comparisons between As-Planned and As-Built for all sensors and actuators installed in the field.
In large systems in the process industry, a huge amount of resources are dedicated to keeping system documentation up to date. Maintenance employees or external companies regularly inspect the production plant and document the changes identified through so-called red entries. The transfer of these red entries from paper lists to a P&I flow diagram often harbors the risk of transfer errors. As a result, manufacturer information cannot be assessed in the event of device discontinuation or product changes. Due to the constantly changing field device inventory in the production plant and the partially missing information, an inventory cannot be planned, which significantly complicates any necessary device replacements.
The solution
Digital system transparency
80% of systems in the process industry are equipped with digital, HART-compatible field devices. However, only 5% use these digital signals.
We make it possible for you to retroactively tap HART data and provide the necessary field data in OPC UA format with no adverse effects. With this additional smart field device data, you benefit from digital system transparency – the so-called digital twin. With this transparency, maintenance, upkeep, and availability can be improved significantly.
Inventory list of HART devices at the touch of a button
With our web-based inventory, you always have all up-to-date field device information available at a glance. Any changes determined are framed for a better overview. This makes it easier for you to add red entries to your system documentation. You can also export the inventory lists. In this way, you are laying the foundation for entry into the world of the digital twin in process automation.
Example of the web-based inventory list
What we call a digital twin for the process industry is a digital map of all sensors and actuators present in the field, including the stored maintenance cycles, their configuration, and the error status of the devices in the event of errors. This is what we focus on with our solution.
From the field to IIoT
The electrical HART signals tap is retrofitted between the field and automation system without any negative effects. The field device data is normalized and standardized on the edge. It can therefore be made available, for example, for added-value services such as predictive maintenance and for sustainable process optimization.
PLCnext Store
The PLCnext Store provides software applications (apps) that allow you to extend the functions of PLCnext Control directly and easily. The open nature of the store also allows third-party suppliers to sell apps they have developed.
Work with your preferred programming languages, whether IEC 61131-3 or high-level languages. Integrate open source code and apps, or network with PLCnext Control via cloud connections.
