Schneider Electric - Software-defined Automation: the next generation of industrial automation
Software-defined Automation (SDA) is a new approach to industrial automation that uses software to control, manage and optimize automation processes instead of the traditional “hardware-first” approach to automation.
A new approach to industrial automation
Software-defined automation is a new paradigm that offers machine builders portability and interoperability while providing flexibility, scalability and integration with digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI). Unlike conventional automation, where hardware is tightly coupled to proprietary software, Software-defined Automation emphasizes modular, vendor-independent software, which offers greater flexibility in hardware selection and management.
How Software-defined Automation accelerates agility, efficiency and innovation
With recent developments in Software-defined Automation and Universal Automation, the shift to open software-centric methodologies and tools is now well underway, and closed, manufacturer-dependent options are quickly becoming a thing of the past. When automation hardware is decoupled from software, automation functionality can be deployed on a platform of choice. This ultimately enables a company to make decisions based on what makes the most sense for their performance and business needs, and ensures a smoother transition to the digitized future of Industry 4.0 and beyond.
Software-defined Automation enables centralized operating systems where processes in different parts of an organization can be managed from a single software platform. In terms of interoperability, it provides seamless integration between different types of devices and systems, making it easier to manage heterogeneous environments with diverse devices. Systems can be easily scaled up or down by modifying the software, making them adaptable to changing production requirements.
Faster integration of IT and OT
Manufacturers are increasingly using Software-defined Automation to improve portability and interoperability and bridge the gap between IT and OT. Information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) systems integrate smoothly when logic and intelligence are centered on software rather than hardware. Technology is now more versatile and can more easily connect to other devices and systems. Software-defined automation optimizes manufacturing processes and promotes predictive maintenance and quality improvement. It also integrates seamlessly with new and existing automation systems and designs.
Simplify machine integration with EcoStruxure Automation Expert
With EcoStruxure Automation Expert, Schneider Electric offers an open software-defined industrial automation system (compliant with IEC 61499 PLC programming standard). It enables “plug-and-produce” automation solutions and offers machine builders and industrial end users portability and interoperability that improves flexibility and scalability while helping to unlock the full value of IT-OT convergence. This vendor-independent tool can help them grow as they adapt their business models to become more agile, resilient and sustainable.
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