edgeConnector

edgeConnector connects to Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Modbus TCP, FANUC CNC, and Sinumerik 840D controllers and provides access to data via an OPC UA server interface. In addition, the data can also be transmitted to MQTT brokers using MQTT. As a docker container, it offers flexible cloud connectivity options, for example on devices running Azure IoT Edge or AWS IoT Greengrass.

The application is easy to configure locally via a built-in Web interface. It can also be managed remotely via its REST API. Configuration is flexible and includes fine-tuned security settings (e.g. role-based access rights for OPC UA client applications).

As a first strategic extension of Softing’s dataFEED product family into virtualization- and container technology, the new product leverages Softing deep experience with brownfield connectivity with MQTT and OPC UA technology and makes it available for new and highly efficient IoT solution architectures.

Access to existing PLC and CNC controller data

• Access to machine data from different controllers, such as SIMATIC Siemens PLCs, Allen-Bradley PLCs, Modbus TCP PLCs, SINUMERIK 840D CNCs, FANUC CNCs
• Connection of up to 20 Controllers with one container runtime
• Solution for retrofit IIoT integration of existing controllers, thus protecting previous investments

Standardize and simplify the machine data integration

• Integration of higher-level management systems like ERP, MES, or SCADA using integrated OPC UA Server providing open, platformindependent, and market-proven communication
• Simple data transmission to an MQTT broker using the MQTT publisher functionality for local or cloud-based solutions
• Protect investment through simple retrofit upgrades, as well as for modern controllers’ integration, without require modifying the running configuration in them

Lightweight flexible container solution

• Container image stored in the online repository Docker Hub
• Less resources plus increased scalability and flexibility
• Highly flexible state-of-the-art application to be deployed, adjusted, started, and, if needed, stopped immediately
• Deployment and configuration also via management systems such as Portainer, Kubernetes, Azure IoT Edge, or AWS IoT Greengrass

Secure communication

• Support of all security functions of OPC UA and MQTT
• Supporting security standards such as SSL/TLS and X.509 certificates, authentication, and data encryption.
• Filtered access depending on IP address (Whitelist / Blacklist for OPC UA endpoints)
• Detection of DoS (Denial of Service) attacks on OPC UA authentication