Integration of Distributed Control Systems in Virtual Automation Networks

This paper presents an adaptation of the concept for the engineering of Distributed Control Systems (DCSs) based on heterogeneous communication systems as defined in the European Integrated Project Virtual Automation Networks. The adapted approach offers the possibility to configure an object-oriented distributed automation system DOME. The details of the engineering are derived from the VAN protocol specifications which are based on the OSI Reference ASE model. The paper presents also the mapping of the engineering concept to FDT/TCI technologies in general which is used to evaluate the information model and the usefulness of the VAN information model and the interaction of the tools with the VAN devices.