The new specification describes a standardized OPC UA object model for Profinet devices. Devices from different manufacturers can therefore transfer standardized device data to asset management systems, for example. Standardization makes it easier for tool manufacturers to collect information across manufacturers. However, PI considers this to be just the beginning of its vertical integration strategy.

Many Industry 4.0 use cases are based on transferring data from the store floor to IT systems or the cloud during the operating phase of a plant in order to evaluate it there. In the simplest case, this involves device information, such as the serial number or firmware version of a device. However, it can also be much more extensive and complex, for example when network or device diagnostic data needs to be recorded. This data can then be used to create maintenance and diagnostic plans or derive availability statements. PI's aim is to define an open standard for Profinet devices that defines a wide range of information in standardized object models so that they can be easily integrated by device manufacturers and used by plant operators and system integrators. Ultimately, this also reduces the effort and cost of data acquisition.

During implementation, it does not matter whether the OPC UA server is located directly in the device or whether a superimposed edge gateway or a controller aggregates the data for several Profinet devices. In any case, users have a homogeneous representation of the information. Profinet benefits from the fundamental property that other TCP/IP channels can be operated in parallel alongside the actual real-time traffic.

According to PI, the specification that has now been published forms the basis for subsequent, more far-reaching information models. Next, the working group has set itself the goal of modeling energy management data in OPC UA on the basis of Profienergy. Further requirements are already in the clarification phase. The working groups are also working together on overarching OPC specifications such as Device Integration and Base Network Information Model.

The Companion Specification can be viewed and downloaded from the PI and OPC Foundation websites. Further information on vertical integration with Profinet and OPC UA can be found on PI's redesigned Industry 4.0 website at www.profibus.com/I40.