INDUSTRY INITIATIVE

ei3 Leads OMAC's Initiative in Creating a Practical Guide for Ethernet Deployments in Automation

While Ethernet networks are well-established, their implementation within industrial automation applications can be challenging due to the unique demands in manufacturing environments. OMAC’s latest initiative, led by ei3, explores various architectural strategies to streamline and secure Ethernet deployment in these settings.

The workgroup, comprising end users, OEMs, system integrators, and technology providers, delves into diverse architectures. This includes examining lower-level I/O networks, enterprise connectivity, unified IP addressing, monitoring and diagnostics, VLANs, as well as wireless and 5G applications, to identify and leverage their advantages for more effective Ethernet integration.

INDUSTRY INITIATIVE

ei3 Leads OMAC's Initiative in Creating a Practical Guide for Ethernet Deployments in Automation

While Ethernet networks are well-established, their implementation within industrial automation applications can be challenging due to the unique demands in manufacturing environments. OMAC’s latest initiative, led by ei3, explores various architectural strategies to streamline and secure Ethernet deployment in these settings.

The workgroup, comprising end users, OEMs, system integrators, and technology providers, delves into diverse architectures. This includes examining lower-level I/O networks, enterprise connectivity, unified IP addressing, monitoring and diagnostics, VLANs, as well as wireless and 5G applications, to identify and leverage their advantages for more effective Ethernet integration.

TASK FORCE LEADERS

The workgroup is led by industrial Ethernet expert Mark Fondl, along with Gary Workman, a key contributor to General Motors’ EtherNet/IP strategy and a co-author of a recent EtherNet/IP book, and David Gutshall, an expert in end-user networks currently at Cisco working on Industrial Ethernet. Collectively, they bring over 50 years of experience in industrial Ethernet networks, making them the ideal leaders for this project.

Ethernet Workgroup Task Force Leaders

TASK FORCE LEADERS

The workgroup is led by industrial Ethernet expert Mark Fondl, along with Gary Workman, a key contributor to General Motors’ EtherNet/IP strategy and a co-author of a recent EtherNet/IP book, and David Gutshall, an expert in end-user networks currently at Cisco working on Industrial Ethernet. Collectively, they bring over 50 years of experience in industrial Ethernet networks, making them the ideal leaders for this project.

Ethernet Workgroup Task Force Leaders

About the Workgroup

PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS

This collaborative workgroup draws upon a diverse spectrum of automation expertise, offering comprehensive insights from end users, machine builders, system integrators, and technology vendors.

 Participating organizations include:

  • Leading Manufacturing Companies such as Cargill, Pepsico, Corning, Frito Lay, Proctor & Gamble, Tyson, ACG PAM PHARMA, Sonoco, General Motors, and Toyoya
  • Global OEMs including Barry-Wehmiller, Nordson, Markem, and Rychiger
  • System Integrators like RoviSysCognizant, Malisko, Wave Technologies, Reynolds Company, and  E Tech Group, and 
  • Groundbreaking Technology Companies like ei3 Corporation, Siemens, Rockwell Automation, Cisco, Opto22, Fox IV, and Copa Data

ETHERNET GUIDE LAUNCH EVENT

The OMAC Ethernet Deployment Guide launch event took place on February 8th at the ARC Industry Leadership Forum in Orlando, Florida.

TOPICS

A Brief History of Communications in Industrial Automation

  • The Evolution of Digital Technology in Manufacturing
  • The Evolution of Digital Communications

Section 1: Differences in the Manufacturing Networking Environment

Section 2: Reasons for Greater Network Segmentation and Segregation 

Section 3: Unique Nature of IP Addressing in Manufacturing

Section 4: Real-Time Communication, Determinism, and TSNs

Section 6: Network Security

Section 7: Use of Wireless and RF Technologies

Section 8: Tools and Support for Network Monitoring, Configuration, and Troubleshooting

 

Member Experiences

ei3 actively works with industry groups to encourage the use of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to meet the growth and sustainability challenges of the 21st century.