OPC UA based multi-agent systems – Intelligent automation solutions for traditional production infrastructures

Abstract

This article examines an approach for the intelligent coupling of a digital production site based on OPC UA and the agent paradigm. By integrating the interface standard OPC UA with methods of distributed artificial intelligence, interoperability and vertical integration of traditional production infrastructures using secure and reliable approaches becomes possible while also enabling scenarios of Industry 4.0. We describe an integration approach of the physical and digital world based on a representation of intelligent software agents using the object-oriented modelling concepts of OPC UA.