Edge Management Testbed - more interoperability & innovation

The Edge Management Testbed

What is the Edge Management Testbed?

Industry 4.0 combines the traditional world of manufacturing with the possibilities of modern IT. Edge devices are a central element of this connection. These play a key role in factory automation. However, selecting and setting up these devices is only part of the challenge. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular, simply managing and configuring edge technologies is a major challenge. This is because the integration and management of these devices and the use of corresponding software and connections often require special expertise, which is often limited in SMEs.

Why is edge management so important?

Edge management systems are special software solutions. These help to master the complexity described above. They ensure that even large and complex projects or production processes with many different devices and extensive software can be rolled out and managed efficiently. Such solutions can make all the difference, especially for SMEs, as they make complex technologies usable and facilitate entry into Industry 4.0. Without good edge management, such projects are difficult to implement in a manufacturing factory.

The problem

Most edge management systems are currently proprietary. This means that they are only fully compatible with the devices of one particular manufacturer because they are not based on uniform standards. This represents a significant obstacle to flexibility and makes it difficult for edge devices to become more widespread.

OUR SOLUTION: The LNI 4.0 Edge Management Testbed

Various manufacturers of edge solutions have joined forces in our Edge Management Testbed. Together, we develop cross-manufacturer standard solutions. This allows edge devices from different manufacturers to work together seamlessly and drive the further development of our industry in Germany and worldwide.

Would you like to get to know the Edge Management Testbed free of charge?

Edge Management Demonstrator

The LNI 4.0 Edge Management Demonstrator shows how the different levels of technologies and systems work together in the context of Industry 4.0. It is made up of different levels that have different functions and tasks:

Field Layer: Collection of real-time data by sensors and devices.
Edge Layer: Local processing and analysis of data to optimize processes.
Management Layer: Centralized management, long-term data storage and integration into higher-level IT systems.

1. field layer (field level)

The field level is the lowest level of the system, where physical devices and sensors are located. These record data in real time and pass it on. This level contains, for example, machines, systems and sensors that are used directly in production.

Functions:

Data acquisition and pre-processing
Monitoring and control of machines and systems
Communication with the levels above

Example:

Sensors on a production line that measure temperature or pressure, for example, work with the system control and forward this data to the next level.

2. edge layer (edge level)

The edge layer is the middle layer. It is located between the field layer and the management layer and serves as a "bridge". It is the executive force, so to speak. It processes the data collected by the sensors and devices in the system control and sends it to downstream systems and controllers.

Functions:

Data processing and analysis
Pre-processing, filtering and conversion
Local storage of data
Execution of applications and algorithms such as AI to optimize production processes

Example:

Sensors on a production line that measure temperature or pressure, for example, work with the system control and forward this data to the next level.

3. management layer (management level)

The management layer is the top level in this system. It manages and monitors the entire infrastructure of edge devices and applications at the edge level.

Functions:

Centralized management of edge devices and their applications
Data storage and its analysis
Integration into higher-level IT systems
Security management and access controls as well as onboarding and offboarding of new hardware and software
Reports and dashboards are provided for the integration of edge technologies, their configuration and for decision-making

Testbed request form

Would you like to get to know our LNI 4.0 Edge Management Testbed free of charge and without obligation? You have the opportunity to arrange a free introductory meeting with us.
Please fill out the form below and select a suitable date.

Next date:

61st General Assembly
6.12.2024, 10:00-11:00 (TEAMS)

Topics: debrief SPS 2024 and Planning 2025