A multi-protocol real-time monitoring and validation system for distributed fieldbus-based automation applications

This work describes BR-Tool (Bus Real-Time Monitoring Tool), an on-line monitoring and validation system to evaluate timing characteristics of automation systems implemented as a distributed network of fieldbus devices. BR-Tool supports several industrial communication protocol standards. It includes a programmable messages logger module and a validation toolset that allows timing requirements specification, validation, and graphical visualization of results. In order to illustrate the main system characteristics, two industrial case studies are presented: a Profibus-DP-based manufacturing system and an energy systems application (a multitap-transformers position control system) based on the CANOpen protocol.