Schneider Electric, Intel, and Red Hat Create Open Automation Infrastructure
In collaboration with Intel and Red Hat, Schneider Electric has created a next-generation, open automation infrastructure to help replace vendor-specific infrastructure with software-based control systems.
Schneider Electric has teamed up with Intel and Red Hat to create a next-generation open automation infrastructure. Combining their unique talents, the three companies have created a network-based experience for interoperability and portability, helping users create innovation and future growth for their industrial/manufacturing-based businesses.
The new development is an extension of Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Automation Expert. EcoStruxure Automation Expert is an industrial automation system designed to help users improve automation processes by separating automation software and the specific hardware it runs on. With the new framework, companies will be able to move to a software-defined, easily applied solution for production.
Schneider Electric, Intel, and Red Hat have developed a DCN software framework to promote open automation. Image used courtesy of Adobe Stock
Schneider Electric, Intel, and Red Hat
The three companies have worked together to create a new distributed control node (DCN) software framework. The framework is designed to meet the goals and align with the vision of the Open Process Automation Forum (OPAF). OPAF is a standard designed to create industrial process automation systems with open, interoperable, and secure architecture.
The new DCN looks to deliver a modern network-based experience to users looking for the next generation of industrial control systems. The project is the result of two years of collaboration among the companies. The project's main theme is centered around the idea that companies will now have the ability to shape technology around their businesses instead of shaping their business to fit the technology they need.
The new framework expands on Schneider Electric’s existing industrial automation system, EcoStruxure Automation Expert. Image used courtesy of Adobe Stock
A New Generation of Industrial Control
The framework is made up of two parts: the advanced computer platform (ACP) and the DCN. The ACP supervises the control workload by providing content control in conjunction with automation capabilities used for the deployment of secure workloads and programming functionality. In addition, the ACP provides virtualization and monitoring functionalities where necessary.
The DCN consists of Intel Atom x6400E series processors in industrial systems to provide users with a low-power solution. It is designed for dedicated control operations and can handle workloads of differing necessity. The DCN framework is the key to the open automation approach that seeks to provide users greater flexibility and growth.
The new framework will bring flexible software-focused industrial automation infrastructure to users. Image used courtesy of Adobe Stock
Moving From Fixed to Dynamic Infrastructure
The three companies' framework looks to give manufacturers a new avenue for future growth by moving from unchangeable, single-purpose devices to more malleable software systems. Intel has a history of open-source system approaches, and it hopes that working with Schneider and Red Hat will allow manufacturers to move forward with emerging technologies. The development aims to bring end users to the forefront of new and developing technologies like AI, edge computing, and Industry 4.0 by moving plant controls into software-based infrastructure.
