Connectivity Framework
1 : Introduction
Figure 1-2 : Scope of the Connectivity as a crosscutting function within the IIoT Reference Architecture . Connectivity provides the data sharing mechanisms for the higher-level functions , including “ Distributed Data Interoperability and Management ”. The “ neck ” of the hourglass represents the “ Internet ” network layer , common across industries . This document focuses on the connectivity layers above the neck .
1.3 SUMMARY
The connectivity challenges in IIoT include meeting diverse requirements , working over many transports , and connecting a dizzying array of “ things ” from small devices to huge , intelligent networks of complex subsystems . And challenges are both business and technical : we shall consider the business , function , usage and implementation viewpoints .
The connectivity reference architecture strives for broad applicability across the IIoT and the power to handle challenging , unique applications . It introduces the notions of a connectivity gateway 1 and core connectivity standards . There are two types of gateways : Core Gateways that connect core standards , and noncore gateways that connect a domain-specific connectivity technology to a core connectivity standard . Rather than building many bridges between many standards , each core connectivity standard need only connect to the other core connectivity standards through core gateways . The many domain-specific connectivity technologies need then interface to only one of the core connectivity standards . This strikes a balance between allowing any connectivity technology so requiring many complex bridges and allowing only one core standard that cannot span the IIoT .
1
Gateway is a base term defined in the Industrial Internet Vocabulary [ IIC-IIV2015 ]: a forwarding component , enabling various networks to be connected . It may be a software component .
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