The optimal network concept for artificial intelligence

Time Sensitive Networks (TSN) can revolutionize automation when combined with Profinet. Artificial intelligence (AI) in automation, such as ChatGPT, requires large amounts of data to be transported from the field to the AI system, affecting the control process. High-precision time synchronization is essential for processing and evaluating distributed data from the field level. TSN standards contribute to this, and the migration process is expected to be rapid. The combination of Profinet with TSN is ideal for meeting these requirements in a single network.

Currently separate networks for fieldbus and IT

Currently, requirements for optical anomaly detection using AI tools are implemented in separate networks due to limited transmission speed and high-precision time synchronization is also not currently available in IT networks and systems. This separation allows IT communication to maintain real-time capability, but also has costs and challenges in future extensions or changes. A “convergent network” can improve these functions by combining IT and OT disciplines in a single network, ensuring that the Ethernet structure, known as Time-Sensitive Networks (TSN), does not affect each other.

TSN as a tool box for special purposes

TSN can be compared to a tool box containing several tools. Each of these tools serves a specific purpose. Here is a brief explanation of the tools:

Quality of Service (QoS) is crucial for real-time-critical traffic, while preemption reduces data forwarding variance. In addition, precision Time Protocol (PTP) is used for high-precision time synchronization in AI applications, allowing for microsecond-range synchronization accuracies. Synchronous communication ensures that terminal-to-terminal response time remains consistent. Brownfield integration is necessary for Profinet with TSN, as it requires new hardware in all devices involved. However, a smooth transition from Profinet RT to Profinet with TSN is feasible, as any existing Profinet device can be used at the TSN area boundaries. By combining these tools effectively, Profinet with TSN offers advantages without changing the look and feel of the network.

Areas of application for Profinet with TSN

Profinet with TSN offers benefits in applications like optical anomaly detection, vibration data, 3D images, frequency synchronization, alarm messages, and firmware updates. These tools can be used for Profinet communication between controllers and field devices without changing the application view of Profinet. OPC UA with pub/sub communication is more suitable for data exchange between different controllers. The OPC Foundation is working on a usage concept for TSN in OPC UA Field Exchange.

Learn more about Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN).