Abstract
Purpose - The purpose of this research is to compare an industrial ethernet based network (PROFINET Class 1) with a traditional fieldbus network (PROFIBUS). Design/methodology/approach - Two sets of identical motors were used in the experimental set-up. The speed synchronisation of a lead and follower motors was compared using both PROFINET Class 1 and a PROFIBUS DP network. The level of synchronising achievable was used as a measure of performance for each network. Findings - It was found that PROFIBUS DP produces a better performance for set point and load changes than PROFINET Class 1 network. Research limitations/implications - PROFINET Class 2 and higher could not be used in the experiment due to availability of equipment and funding. Practical implications - This research provides a comparative study of two very popular industrial networks. The results can be used as reference by industry for selection of industrial networks. Originality/value - The paper provides a manufacturer independent practical comparison of two industrial networks. The application area of speed synchronisation is demanding, and should inform the user on the performance and limitation of industrial networks.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 17096525 |
Pages (from-to) | 374-385 |
Number of pages | 12 |
Journal | Assembly Automation |
Volume | 33 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2013 |
Keywords
- Control
- Control systems