Software-based automation for industries
The future of industrial automation is software-based
AFRY can carry out software-based automation design and programming by utilising IEC 61499
Industrial automation is expected to become software-based in the future. As with smartphones, automation applications will run on a single platform, independent of hardware. Automation engineering will transform so that the automation software can be automatically created as part of the design work and uploaded straight to the process stations.
At AFRY, we offer software-based automation that enables applications to be deployed on any hardware. By leveraging the open IEC 61499 standard, which is promoted by Universal Automation, we help clients eliminate vendor lock-in and embrace flexible, cost-effective automation solutions, allowing us to seamlessly deliver projects from pre-design to decommissioning.
Revolutionising industrial automation with open, software-based solutions
Despite advances in digitalisation, industrial automation still largely relies on vendor lock-in, where automation vendors provide solutions using their proprietary hardware and programming languages. This not only leads to inflated costs for asset owners but also hampers innovation. Analytics, Advanced Process Control (APC), and AI solutions must either be sourced from the automation vendor's catalogue or custom programmed for each new application.
At AFRY, we offer a better solution: software-based automation that allows applications to be deployed on any hardware. By leveraging Universal Automation, built on the open IEC 61499 standard, we help clients eliminate vendor lock-in and embrace flexible, cost-effective automation solutions. AFRY is a member of Universal Automation, an association that promotes software-based automation, which is likely to become the dominant way of designing and implementing automation solutions in the future.
We are uniquely positioned to deliver complete IEC 61499 projects, from pre-design to decommissioning. Our expertise ensures seamless integration of Universal Automation platforms, which utilise a shared-source runtime execution engine. With proven success in initial projects, AFRY enables clients to adopt cutting-edge, open automation systems that drive efficiency and innovation in their operations.
Cost-effective and flexible industrial automation
- Vendor-independent control application software
- Reduced automation costs through shared technology
- Plug & Produce: Modern tech solutions enabled by the re-use of software
- Modern technology: it enables AI and other advanced solutions, and appeals to young software engineers
- Flexible architecture allowing the best solution for every system
- Future-proof and reliable automation system, thanks to a vendor-neutral runtime
FAQ
Universal Automation is an association that promotes software-based automation, which is likely to become the dominant way of designing and implementing automation solutions in the future.
Universal Automation is the missing link towards software-based automation. It promotes a common and open automation layer that is based on the IEC 61499 standard. To gain momentum, Universal Automation has been building an ecosystem of users, vendors, and academics. The members use Universal Automation platforms that utilise a shared-source IEC 61499 runtime execution engine. The members already include reputable automation vendors and large industrial clients who have recognised the benefits of this approach.
Interested in Software-based automation for industries?
