Thomas Burke, Global Strategic Advisor for CC Link Partner Association (CLPA) digs into the topic of time-sensitive networking
Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) is a set of IEEE 802.1 standards that transform standard Ethernet into a deterministic, real-time network. It ensures the timely and reliable delivery of data, making it ideal for applications demanding synchronised and precise communication. By adding features like time synchronisation, traffic scheduling, and fault tolerance, TSN empowers industries to leverage Ethernet for critical applications that previously relied on specialised networks.
TSN is revolutionising Ethernet networks by ensuring the timely and reliable delivery of critical data. By leveraging precise time synchronisation (IEEE 802.1AS) and advanced traffic scheduling (IEEE 802.1Qbv), TSN empowers networks to prioritise and deliver time-sensitive data within strict latency bounds. It’s ideal for applications like industrial automation, automotive systems, and medical devices, where even the slightest delay can have significant consequences.
TSN is a better option than rigid and inflexible industrial networks that require careful planning and limit adaptability. With digital transformation and Industry 4.0 comes better, more flexible, scalable, and reliable network communication. For instance, TSN enables the seamless integration of control and data traffic on a single Ethernet network. TSN empowers equipment manufacturers to deliver innovative, competitive solutions that drive efficiency and productivity while reducing costs and complexity.
A broader network vision
Superimposing TCP/IP Traffic on Industrial Control Networks is also beneficial. By integrating diverse TCP/IP traffic onto a unified industrial control network, organisations can unlock such significant advantages as:
- Enhanced monitoring and diagnostics:
- Leverage SNMP for real-time network device monitoring and performance optimisation
- Improved Human-Machine Interface (HMI):
- Enable real-time operator interaction with control systems for efficient process monitoring and response
- Robust data logging and historical analysis:
- Collect and archive process data for valuable insights, optimization, and compliance
- Seamless enterprise integration:
- Facilitate communication between the production floor and business systems for improved coordination and efficiency
- Remote access and maintenance:
- Enable remote troubleshooting and maintenance to reduce downtime and operational costs
- Enhanced security:
- Incorporate intrusion detection systems to safeguard the network against cyber threats
- Predictive maintenance:
- Utilise sensor data to anticipate equipment failures and schedule proactive maintenance
- Superb video surveillance:
- Implement video surveillance for safety monitoring and incident investigation
All of these capabilities combined create more integrated, efficient, and secure industrial operations.
Machines and processes benefits using TSN
Complex machines, like industrial robots and automated manufacturing systems, can significantly benefit from enhanced data access. Ethernet with TSN offers a high-bandwidth, deterministic communication network, ensuring timely and reliable data transmission from sensors and control elements. This improved data flow enables sophisticated analysis, leading to advancements in machine performance, maintenance, and overall operational efficiency.
Real-time access to sensor and control data, facilitated by Ethernet with TSN, enables precise monitoring and control of machine operations. Minimal latency and jitter ensure synchronised control tasks, such as adjusting robotic movements based on real-time sensor data. This dynamic response to changing conditions enhances flexibility, efficiency, and accuracy in manufacturing assembly lines and other industrial applications.
Leveraging detailed sensor data, Ethernet with TSN supports predictive maintenance strategies. Continuous monitoring of machine components, such as temperature, vibration, and pressure, enables data-driven insights to identify potential failures. This high-throughput data transmission minimises unplanned downtime, extends equipment life, and optimises maintenance resources.
Driving efficiency and innovation
Analysing the rich data collected from sensors and control elements enables optimisation of machine operations. Advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms can process this data to identify inefficiencies and recommend adjustments. Ethernet with TSN’s reliable and timely data transmission ensures that the analysis is based on accurate information. For instance, adjusting process parameters in response to real-time data can enhance energy efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality in manufacturing processes.
Real-time data access, enabled by Ethernet with TSN, enhances safety systems. Deterministic communication ensures rapid detection and response to hazardous conditions, such as abnormal temperature rises, enabling immediate cooling or shutdown procedures. Comprehensive data logs support regulatory compliance by providing transparent operational histories and facilitating audits.
Ethernet with TSN allows for seamless integration of additional sensors and control elements without compromising network performance. This scalability supports the evolution of complex machines as new technologies emerge. Additionally, it enables the convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) networks, allowing for unified communication across different system levels. This integration simplifies network architecture and improves collaboration between departments like production and enterprise management.
A new era of industrial connectivity
By consolidating multiple communication protocols onto a single Ethernet with TSN network, companies can simplify their infrastructure, reducing costs associated with installation, maintenance, and training. This unified approach enhances reliability by minimising potential points of failure.
Improved data access facilitates remote monitoring and control of machines. Ethernet with TSN supports secure and reliable data transmission necessary for remote operations. Experts can analyse machine performance, diagnose issues, and implement solutions remotely, reducing the need for on-site interventions. This capability is particularly beneficial for multinational companies or facilities located in remote areas.
Reliable, high-speed communication provided by Ethernet with TSN enables the implementation of advanced control strategies, such as distributed control systems and coordinated multi-axis control. For applications like robotics, where precise timing between multiple components is critical, TSN ensures synchronised data exchange. By delivering control commands and feedback signals in a timely and predictable manner, it enhances the effectiveness of these complex control schemes.
Conclusion
Leveraging Ethernet with TSN provides complex machines with enhanced access to sensor and control data. This deterministic communication ensures prompt and predictable data transmission, enabling real-time control and monitoring. By analysing this data, organisations can optimise machine operations, make informed decisions, and achieve higher productivity, reduced downtime, and a competitive edge.
Thomas J. Burke is the Global Strategic Advisor for CC-Link Partner Association (CLPA), which is a high-speed, high-performance industrial network that supports the IIoT and IT/OT convergence. Tom’s background includes being the former OPC Foundation President & Executive Director and pioneered the OPC Unified Architecture (OPC UA) as the foundation of information integration and interoperability.
Author: Thomas Burke, Global Strategic Advisor, CLPA
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