AB: We started this collaboration with Intel when we were exploring and defining the Open Process Automation Forum (OPAF). The collaboration is more on the software side, and we leverage Intel Policy Engine technology in EcoStruxure Automation Expert, which is our open software-defined automation solution.
SW: This collaboration between Intel and Schneider gave us an opportunity to demonstrate the value of software defined by optimizing the solution, both from a hardware and a software standpoint that delivered workload consolidation, manageability, security and was scalable for future use cases going forward.
Q: Andre, how does EcoStruxure Automation Expert represent a new era of software automation based on shared runtime?
AB: It helps end users identify digital continuity. One of the challenges most companies have is keeping their data alive. From the day they design a new plant or an addition to a new plant, the construction data must be able to be carried through the lifecycle of their plan. EcoStruxure Automation Expert leverages IT technologies to create the data continuity from the early design phase to commissioning and through operation and lifecycle evolution. The data continuity during along the lifecycle of the automation project creates higher efficiency and higher quality for the end user. When we start execution and controlling the process, all this continuity is a key element for the efficiency end users need.
Also, a key is hardware independence, a great empowerment for the end user because in our solution we don't enforce a specific hardware solution. The end user is empowered to decide on architecture, distribution or centralization. If they want specific controllers from specific vendors we can run it transparently as long as it’s part of the Universal Automation organization and leverages shared runtime.
Another unique point is application centricity in comparison to a lot of other systems in the market today. We're looking holistically at what is the control problem and defining it, instead of initially defining the architecture, which is a limiting factor.
Q: Stan, how does the ability to decouple software from hardware provide advantages for operators, such as hardware upgrades, protecting intellectual property and investments?
SW: Decoupling hardware and software has several advantages including increased flexibility, improved stability, increased agility and increased efficiency of a system. It reduces the total cost of ownership. Overall, it enables easier upgrades, reuse of open-source libraries, quicker development and continuous innovation.
Q: How does this solution support an open process automation strategy and vision?
AB: As mentioned earlier, a lot of systems are 20-30 years old and facing obsolescence. Schneider Electric's solution is open and software-based. It removes the roadblock and continues to keep your IP running. Also, Schneider Electric, is a founding member of Universal Automation, a nonprofit organization that creates products for the market. The end user benefits from this openness and portability.
