Automation and networking are basic prerequisites for Industry 4.0. Reliable data communication with high transfer rates is essential for this. Thomas Kruse, Product Manager Network Technology, Smart Home and Security at reichelt elektronik, explains how Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) helps to bring IT and OT together in a unified network without compatibility problems.
For targeted monitoring of motion processes in industrial applications, companies often need real-time data. In view of constantly increasing data volumes, it is therefore an obvious step to make Ethernet suitable for industrial applications as well. This enables globally uniform data communication across the boundaries of local networks.
Unify your protocols
However, proprietary protocols compatible only with proprietary devices often stand in the way of effective networking. In order not to slow down the digitisation of production steps, metaprotocols such as Open Platform Communication Unified Architecture (OPC UA) are needed. OPC UA is a manufacturer-independent, industrial communication protocol. Using Ethernet technology, it enables continuous and transparent communication from the sensor to the cloud. Thanks to the integrated presentation mechanism, new devices can be integrated into the protocol and communicate with the existing network without much effort.
This protocol is made possible by advances in microelectronics: sensors and actuators with their own mini processors enable universal networking through their open and real-time communication protocol. However, to access data in real time, all devices must be tuned to the same time base.
TSN opens the door to real-time communication
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) has created such a uniform time base with the Ethernet standard Time Sensitive Networking (TSN). This protocol controls data transmission (traffic scheduling) and automates the configuration of individual systems. In this way, it allows companies to synchronise the transmission behaviour of data packets from individual devices over time.
Together with the OPC Foundation's comprehensive communication model, OPC UA PubSub, it was possible to build a bridge and implement real-time compatible applications in the industrial environment as widely available standards. OPC UA PubSub already speeds up communication without implementing TSN by enabling continuous data transmission without having to wait for replies from recipients between individual messages. This can significantly reduce network load. OPC UA over TSN also allows users to use digital certificates to generate a high level of security during data exchange.
New world standard for data communication
With TSN, companies can therefore optimally prepare for Industrie 4.0. It forms the basis for all IIoT applications. Thanks to real-time capability, IT and OT merge into a common network in the blink of an eye, and even end devices without TSN capability can be easily controlled via TSN networks. This means compatibility constraints can be overcome faster and time-critical installation components can be more easily integrated into the Internet of Things. With Time Sensitive Networking, nothing stands in the way of fully automated production.
Photo: Adobe Stock © reichelt elektronik
