The combination of EchoRing with Schildknecht's patented Dataeagle technology offers a suitable solution. In contrast to classic WLAN installations, EchoRing uses the 5 GHz frequency band for data transmission, which ensures stable and interference-free operation with extremely low latency times. The advantages are particularly noticeable where machines and systems have to be integrated into existing fieldbus systems from angled areas or spread over several floors. As an alternative to the time-consuming installation of cable connections or for the control of automated guided vehicles (AGVs), data transmission is already carried out wirelessly via WLAN in many places. However, the extremely high fieldbus requirements in terms of short cycle times and absolute reliability are difficult to meet in the common 2.4 GHz frequency band.

In cooperation with Schildknecht, a solution has now been developed that enables wireless fieldbus communication without any loss of performance, even under difficult environmental conditions. The implementation of stable Profinet communication between a conventional programmable controller and a decentralized I/O module served as a concrete application.

In order to prioritize the data to be transmitted and to decouple the interface between the radio system and the control system, the signals are first pre-processed with a Dataeagle module of type 4U15 and converted into UDP packets. The transmission to the I/O module then takes place via an EchoRing radio system consisting of three radio modules, which ensure highly reliable transmission with minimal latency. As a result, around 95% of all UDP packets could be transmitted absolutely reliably in the 5.8 GHz band with a maximum latency of 9 milliseconds.

While classic WiFi architectures offer hardly any options for prioritizing individual data streams, the token ring technology on which EchoRing is based allows deterministic communication based on the service level. At the same time, Dataeagle technology is able to process information from all common fieldbus protocols (Profibus, Profinet, Can) in such a way that absolutely reliable wireless transmission can be guaranteed.

"The combination of EchoRing and Dataeagle opens up application possibilities that were previously difficult or impossible to implement wirelessly," says Bernd Kremer, Head of Business Development at R3. "For the first time, it is now possible to fully meet the high requirements of fieldbus systems not only on the basis of a cable installation, but also for integrated radio links." Didier Kärst, Head of Product Management at Schildknecht, adds: "If local conditions do not allow stable wireless connections to be established via industrial WLAN, EchoRing offers a suitable solution. We believe that the combination of Dataeagle and EchoRing will make it much easier for many users to set up reliable data networks."