Combining Edge Computing and Blockchains for Flexibility and Performance in Industrial Automation

摘要

The advent of Industry 4.0 has given rise to the introduction of new industrial automation architectures that emphasize the use of digital technologies. In this paper, we introduce a novel reference architecture (RA) for industrial automation, which leverages the benefits of edge computing, while using blockchain technologies for flexible, scalable and reliable configuration and orchestration of automation workflows and distributed data analytics. The presented RA is unique in blending the merits of blockchains and edge computing, while being compliant with emerging standards for industrial automation, such as RAMI4.0 and the RA of the Industrial Internet-Consortium.