Field bus systems are widely used in industrial control syst

Field bus systems are widely used in industrial control systems. Discuss the reasons why field bus systems are so widely utilized in industrial environments. Include in your answer, the function of field bus, how field bus systems operate and the benefits offered by field bus systems. Discuss the decision making process you would go through when choosing a Field bus system.

Solution

In an industry, the complex systems such as assembly line, manufacturing line etc usually needs a control system to function it in a sequenced manner. The system is usually a distributed network system an organized hierarchy which is integral part of the controller system. In this system, usually there is Human Machine Interface through which an operator can monitor and control the system. The system operates through a middle layer programmable logic controllers (PLC) which are connected through communication systems like WLan, Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Fieldbus systems are specifically designed for communication between PLCs or industrial controllers and the field-mounted actuators or sensors.When the fieldbus is integrated into the sensor or actuator the system also provides additional capability such as remote device configuration and/or testing over the bus. In case of faults in the system or network, the fieldbus system can also provide diagnostic information back to the control room to locate the actual position of the faults.
The main advantages of a fieldbus system are
-A vast reduction in the installation costs.
-Savings in terms of reduced wire network, connections, junction boxes, supports, cable trays etc.
- Reduction in number of connections and number of connectors.
- Eliminating failure which occure due to connector failures.
-Two way communication is possible which helps in realtime monitoring of the system.
-Equipment maintenance and servicing becomes more easy and more centralised.
-Accuracy is not affected by noise, interference or loading of electrical signals because the system is digital.