This is an essential prerequisite for obtaining production information across different locations in the Internet of Things, according to the Industry 4.0 requirements profile. Flexibly integrated, the plug-and-play infrastructure box is compatible with any manufacturer's production module within SmartFactoryKL and provides maximum transparency, operational reliability, and data security, as well as optimal protection for personnel and machinery. It enables rapid data communication, used to transmit control commands and status information, as well as other types of data, and provides a reliable power source for efficient production processes with the smallest batch sizes—all without additional work or increased production times.
The Belden and Weidmüller solution, available with the highest protection ratings from IP54 to IP69K, and even in a version suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, perfectly meets these requirements. It is equipped with Belden's Hirschmann Connected Security module, which ensures high-availability data communication between process and control systems and actuator/sensor systems, and Weidmüller's integrated energy measurement components
RSP switches enable a powerful, future-proof network.
• State-of-the-art security features can be implemented thanks to the multi-port firewalls in Hirschmann's EAGLE product range.
• The network solution is completed with robust cables and connectors.
• The infrastructure box provides metering data and status information via OPC Unified Architecture (OPC UA), without additional interfaces or middleware.
• Weidmüller's Power Monitor metering device and high-performance PROmax switched-mode power supply provide integrated energy metering.
• Klippon's high-quality housing technology, VARITECTOR surge and lightning protection, and Weidmüller's FrontCom Vario service interface are integral parts of the infrastructure box, resulting in a compact and robust design.
The new infrastructure box, developed by the two partners, is an innovative solution that enables standardized cabling for data communication and power supply to production modules and thus provides security and protection for these production systems.
The infrastructure box can be used in ring, bus, and star topologies or operate independently, depending on efficiency, availability, and security requirements. It also provides a centralized power supply via decentralized sources. The modular design of the infrastructure box offers optimal flexibility. For example, the number of inputs and outputs can be customized and even changed later, if desired.
