PROSIM in the Cloud: Remote Automation Training Platform with Virtualized Infrastructure

Abstract

The need for high-availability, efficient, training solutions for industrial automation technology is driving the adoption of new tools, software and services supporting the Industry 4.0 paradigm. Specific requirements include vendor agnostic and standards-based programming languages and availability of both physical input–output and industrial communication, while providing a rich and immersive experience through suitable human–machine interface components. The PROSIM platform represents an integrated embedded hardware-software system for programmable logic controller automation training which provides examples in increasing order of complexity, ranging from basic digital logic up to complex manufacturing simulations and process control. A fully software-based solution has been developed in order to complement the laboratory-based system as a training digital twin. We describe the design, implementation and evaluation of the platform as ported onto the HUBCAP collaborative sandboxing environment for virtualized operation. Integration of dedicated communication libraries for Open Platform Communications, Unified Architecture, with simulated programmable logic controllers such as PLCSIM and ARSim is also discussed for fully leveraging new features emerging from increased information and operational technology convergence witnessed in realistic, plant-level, environments. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation in comparison to the physical system while leveraging the resources provided by the cloud environment is carried out.