Virtual automation networks - architectural principles and the current state of development

This paper deals with principles, architecture and solution to problems of virtual automation networks for purposes of automation. Virtual automation networks represent recent trend of communication in heterogeneous networks in industrial automation. Heterogeneous networks consist of industrial automation systems such as fieldbuses, office LANs, and public networks (Internet and telecommunication technologies). Architectural principles are shown on VAN device profiles and intended network topologies. Salient innovative approaches to industrial automation, such as name-based addressing, integration of Web Services and OpenVPN tunnelling are introduced. Security aspects are paid proper attention for being utmost sensitive in industry. The paper reflects the state of the development of the VAN (Integrated project of the 6^th FP) which is being worked on by a consortium of dominant European automation vendors (Siemens, Phoenix Contact, and Schneider Electric), research institutions and technical universities.