Imagine a plant with an automated assembly line, which is directed by an MES (Manufacturing Execution System) and operated by line/cell controllers (PLCs). The joining system is controlled by a PLC.

The MES directs the joining process of individual joints via PLCs, but the handling of results.

• is limited via traditional communication channels, like fieldbus networks.
• relies on propriety data channels that require different implementations depending on the manufacturer.

This use case can be applicable for the following communication setup:

• Joining system with OPC UA and fieldbus interfaces.
• Joining system with only OPC UA.