DARMSTADT, Germany --- TE Connectivity (TE) has collaborated with ifm, SAP and the OPC Foundation to develop a test bed that shows how all sensor data can be transmitted from machines to an IT system and evaluated there. This allows the efficiency of a factory to be considerably enhanced through, for example, a reduction in energy consumption. Because the solution is easy to retrofit in virtually any production facility, it significantly increases productivity and improves resource efficiency. The partners developed the test bed within the Industrial Internet Consortium (IIC).
Smart processes require comprehensive information from the sensors. "The necessary data is frequently available via the sensors, but the controllers generally only process a fraction of what is available," says Dr. Myriam Jahn, managing director, ifm datalink GmbH. With the solution presented at the exhibition, it is now possible to have all sensor data transferred to IT systems without needing to reprogram the controller.
This new solution makes it possible to use data in numerous ways; for example, for condition monitoring, to monitor energy consumption, or to ensure the quality of manufactured products through their seamless traceability. Not only can the efficiency of the processes be improved as a result, but the implementation of energy management processes such as ISO 50001 is also supported at the same time.
The test platform covers the entire infrastructure required for connecting machine sensors to IT systems. Data communication takes place via IO-Link, OPC UA and Profinet.
For more details, go to http://www.TE.com