Siemens has introduced the Sitrans CloudConnect 240: a new IoT gateway for the process industry. It provides a second data channel, completely independent of the control system, which is used to transmit data from any HART-based field devices to the IT world.
In the process industry, field instrumentation is a central source of data when it comes to digitalisation. The Sitrans CC240 IoT gateway establishes a second data channel, which makes field level data that was previously hidden available to the user – without adversely affecting the existing control technology. The system creates a direct connection between the field device and IT or the cloud, and reads not only basic process values but also identification, configuration, and diagnostic parameters – for any HART device of Version 5 or later. The system then makes this data available via an OPC UA server or the Siemens MindSphere IoT-as-a-Service solution.
Asset monitoring solutions
The data is harmonised in line with the Namur Open Architecture information model. This creates a standard perspective on the installed base – regardless of the technology and manufacturer – which means that digital applications can be created for the first time, for both on- and off-premise environments. For example, asset monitoring and management solutions can be implemented, particularly for smaller plants.
Sitrans CC240 supports the connection of up to 64 devices and has an on-board web server with the necessary configuration options and management views so that additional tools are not required.
The available connectivity options also mean that it can be integrated into existing systems. OPC UA can be used to transfer field device values and data directly to automation or IT systems, for example for performing calculations or analyses outside the actual control task. The connection to MindSphere supports the distributed use of several Sitrans CC240 systems – ideal for monitoring globally distributed assets on a central instance.
Dedicated monitoring app
With Sitrans store IQ from Siemens, the user has an app for stock monitoring and management in production and logistics. Filling levels of tanks, silos, racks or other storage facilities are measured and acquired, then transmitted via the Sitrans CC240 or familiar MindConnect gateways to Siemens MindSphere. Sitrans store IQ visualises the acquired data and also generates alarms and events. The application is available for desktop and mobile devices.
These can be user-defined and could for example trigger notifications via SMS or email. The open system has many advantages: it is possible to customise the structure and display, and to acquire and process any desired variables. For the management of materials and the necessary infrastructure, the user often requires not only the central filling level information but also supporting measurements such as temperature, pressure, humidity, or binary inputs. The cloud technology supports full scalability, which goes hand in hand with the flexibility of Sitrans CC240. Sitrans store IQ can therefore be used for anything from a few local containers to larger tank farms or even globally distributed infrastructures. The structure and presentation can be individually configured according to the user’s requirements.
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