Development of a universal model for description of intelligent field devices through the life-cycle

Integration of field devices is currently performed using different device models which all have a different focus. These models are represented by a vast number of different device description formats. For effectiveness of the integration processes, a comprehensive device description model that catches all relevant information is required. Based on an analysis of important formats, a device description model has been designed that covers all relevant information that was formerly stored in those different formats. In this paper the requirements for such a model are discussed, and a universal model integrating existing definitions is described.