Softing integrates CNC data into industrial edge applications

Softing has expanded its dataFEED edgeConnector product line based on Docker (container virtualization) technology. The new edgeConnector 840D supports access to data from the SINUMERIK 840D controller and makes it available in edge devices or virtual environments via OPC UA and MQTT. This enables flexible integration of local OPC UA clients and MQTT brokers in cloud environments and the Industrial Internet of Things.

The dataFEED edgeConnector 840D enables innovative industrial edge solutions. (Source: Softing Industrial)

Following the dataFEED edgeConnector Siemens for connecting to SIMATIC S7 controllers, Softing now presents the dataFEED edgeConnector 840D. This software module is the world's first container application for connecting SINUMERIK 840D Solution Line and Power Line controls. It enables reading of all process parameters and drive data without having to intervene in the configuration of the machine tool.

The dataFEED edgeConnector 840D seamlessly integrates up to 5 CNC controllers into cloud environments, such as Azure IoT Edge or AWS IoT Greengrass. It can be used to check production quality and tolerances, record machine data and integrate it into higher-level management systems, or visualize process parameters and other performance indicators. Configuration can be done locally via an Internet browser or remotely via a REST interface. All connected edge devices and their containers can be centrally deployed via the optional device management system, e.g. for updates or security patches.

“We see a growing demand in the market for software solutions that can be efficiently managed and run on standard hardware. In response to this demand, we have expanded the dataFEED product family to include Docker container software for integrating data from production into innovative and flexible Industrial IoT solutions. In this way, we help users and system integrators bridge the gap between OT and IT,” says Sebastian Schenk, Product Manager at SoftingIndustrial.

Softing plans to further expand the dataFEED edgeConnector product family, for example to support control connections via Modbus TCP or Ethernet/IP. In addition, Docker container software for data aggregation and preprocessing as well as address space models is also in the planning stage. The configuration options in the cloud will also be expanded.

The dataFEED edgeConnector 840D can be downloaded and tested free of charge from online catalogs such as Docker Hub or Microsoft Azure Marketplace.