The aim of the project DIVAN was the performance evaluation on communication characteristics for typical, heterogeneous and distributed automation networks. Because of the great diversity of suitable network configurations, the elementary parts of automation networks which include: real-time Ethernet for local control, security and IP-based interconnections of heterogeneous network structures were investigated. This was realised based on simulation models for the market-relevant real-time systems PROFINET IO, EtherCat and PowerLink, including the influence of characteristics of infrastructure components used to establish the network architecture. Based on these models, simulations are possible to support the user in evaluating solutions and comparing them regarding their suitability to established requirements. It will also be possible to evaluate the time behaviour of the complete inhomogeneous system. In previous work, models for realtime ethernet technologies as well as models for IP coupling were created. Furthermore an appropriate and simple to use graphical user interface, where the models are integrated, was developed. Combined with the simulation kernel OMNeT++, the analysis of one’s own networks will be possible.
