Advanced user layer software tools for industrial fieldbuses

Device interoperability is a crucial element for the development of a dynamic and vendor independent industrial environment. Furthermore, the need to better define the user needs has led to the introduction of the user layer on top of the communication stack for industrial fieldbuses. The ISA IEC SP50 emerging standard for fieldbuses has defined the user layer architecture and requirements so that device interoperability and even device interchangeability is met. This paper presents specific user layer software tools that are being developed at the University of Patras in Greece. The Function Block Builder tool aims at providing the user with a powerful means for defining the structure and algorithm of Function Blocks according to the emerging fieldbus standard. The Logical Node Builder tool addresses the issue of providing a graphical environment for the interconnection of Function Blocks and the subsequent creation of Logical Nodes within the bounds of a Physical Node