Remarkable progress and prototypes
Significant results have already been achieved as part of the project, as a prototype hardware design of the intended embedded feeder has been developed. This offers connectivity via Ethernet, USB OTG and wireless interfaces such as Bluetooth and WiFi, which have been implemented and successfully tested on comparable hardware.
Another step forward is the almost completed realisation of the embedded feeder as a TSN capable switched endpoint. On the software side, the embedded feeder was realised as an "AutomationComponent" using the OPC UA FX Companion Specification. It has its own OPC UA server for configuration and a publisher for real-time data communication.
In addition, the project team developed a prototype design of the embedded feeder as a digital twin using the Asset Administration Shell (AAS) based on the BaSyx open-source platform.
In addition, the project team developed a prototype design of the embedded feeder as a digital twin using the Asset Administration Shell (AAS) based on the BaSyx open-source platform. This design uses standard AAS submodels from the Industrial Digital Twin Association (IDTA), such as the digital nameplate and the "Technical Data" submodel for describing the technical device properties.
Important change in partnership and future plans
One particular development during the project period was the takeover of the project partner Afag Automation GmbH by the Emerson Group, which now operates under the name Emerson | Afag GmbH. With that in mind, the Emerson Group representatives used the milestone meeting to find out about the current status of the project. Further points of contact and opportunities for cooperation between the project partners were explored.
The PHARE project team is determined to continue the integration and expansion of the functionalities. André Mankowski, research associate at inIT, emphasises: "We in the PHARE project team are highly motivated to continue developing the embedded feeder. We are particularly focussed on linking the AAS with the OPC UA server for improved configuration, control and live data analysis."
Further information on the PHARE project: https://www.init-owl.de/forschung/projekte/detail/prototyp-eines-hochintegrierten-skill-basierten-embedded-feeders-schwingfoerderer/
A look back at the start of the project: https://www.init-owl.de/aktuelles/news/detail/projektstart-phare-forschung-und-industrie-arbeiten-hand-in-hand/