Software architectures in smart manufacturing: Review and experiences

Abstract

Cyber-physical systems based on heterogeneous and distributed devices, applications and services are the core of smart factories. Smart manufacturing systems are highly dependent on software applications and services that enable integration of data from different and heterogeneous sources, as well as support for control and management processes. Development and implementation of specific architecture styles and patterns in smart industrial settings is essential for their performance. Several software architecture styles used in Industry 4.0 environments are discussed and illustrated with examples from literature. Our experience with a prototype of a smart sensor-based layered architecture is presented and discussed. Further work will be directed towards development of service oriented architectures and reengineering method for old fashioned industrial settings.