A Scalable Factory Backbone for Multiple Independent Time-Sensitive Networks

TL;DR

This paper presents a scalable factory backbone network supporting multiple independent time-sensitive networks at high line rates, enabling seamless integration of IT and OT traffic without modifying existing OT sub-networks.

Contribution

Introduces an Ethernet extension for a high-speed factory backbone that supports multiple independent time-sensitive networks with sub-microsecond precision, without altering OT sub-networks.

Findings

Achieved line rates of 10-100 Gbit/s in prototype tests.

Demonstrated interoperability and field performance.

Supported integration of IT and OT traffic seamlessly.

Abstract

Convergence of time-sensitive machine control networks as part of the operational technology (OT) with the ubiquitous information technology (IT) networks is an essential requirement for the ongoing digitalization of production. In this paper, we review the fundamental differences between both technologies, the challenges to be solved, existing and upcoming solutions like TSN and their limitations. Furthermore, we introduce an Ethernet extension for a backbone network at factory scale and line rates of 10 - 100Gbit/s. The backbone is intended to carry massive amounts of IT traffic together with the traffic of multiple independent OT networks at the precision of leading-edge field bus technologies in the sub-microsecond range. The backbone remains transparent and does not require changes to the attached OT sub-networks. We prove our claims by prototype measurements, interoperability tests and field trials.