Modular gateway for Edge2Cloud communication
On behalf of a customer, HEITEC has designed a compact, multifunctional system that simultaneously functions as a control unit, gateway and output unit. The device is suitable for connecting various analogue devices, linking sensors and controllers as well as connectivity to the cloud. Many communication interfaces and protocols as well as fieldbuses such as PROFIBUS or PROFINET are supported. This means that the required data is accessible at all times. The system enables connection to various cloud solutions such as IBM Cloud, Microsoft Azure and others, as well as connection to MES systems on site.
Brief technical description
- SoC Xilinx Zynq-7000, dual-core ARM Cortex A9, FPGA Xilinx Artix-7
- 512 MB RAM, 64 MB QSPI Flash memory
- 1 GB DDR3L SDRAM (expandable)
- 2 x 10/100/1000 Mbit/s Ethernet
- 8x sensor connections (up to 2 MHz)
- 16x digital inputs (max. 24 V)
- 16x digital outputs (max. 24 V, max. 0.8 A)
- W x H x D: 222 x 122 x 82 mm at 1.5 kg
Realisation
In this project, the mechanics, hardware and electronics were developed according to customer requirements and realised in the corporate design. The gateway had to fulfil demanding conditions for use in harsh industrial environments and was designed to be resistant to vibration and shock in accordance with existing standards. Interference with the surrounding hardware was ruled out by means of IEC certification. Electromagnetic immunity and electromagnetic interference limits were verified in extensive tests and achieved, as was RoHS conformity. With a weight of just 1.5 kg, the system is very light and also very compact thanks to its small dimensions. The connectors have been designed to be robust enough to achieve 10,000 mating cycles per slot while remaining easy to maintain.
Modularity and flexibility are not only emphasised by the processor architecture and the gateway function, but also by the update options: The four built-in analogue interface modules can be swapped for other boards. The memory can also be expanded if required. The system runs on a Linux-based operating system and is operated via a 24 VDC power supply. In contrast to conventional systems of this type, the device also has an integrated display. The robust housing is made of brushed, colourless passivated stainless steel and can therefore withstand any corrosive environment.
HEITEC thus offers its customers an all-in-one complete solution for a modern factory, as required for Industry 4.0.
Customer benefits
- Realisation of the customer-specific enclosure in the corporate design
- Realisation of the standards:
CE conformity
EN 55016-21/3
EN 61000-4-2/-3/-4/-6/-8
DIN EN 60068-2-6/-27 - Prototype development and production from a single source
- Support and development across all evolution cycles
- High shock and vibration resistance
- High user-friendliness thanks to display
- Robust housing made of brushed, passivated stainless steel
