The main objective of the IGNITE 5.0 project is to improve the management of network connectivity in the components of a manufacturing company’s production lines. This is made possible by the introduction of a new component called Asset Administration Shell (AAS), software that provides specific management services for each element of the production line.

In the context of IGNITE 5.0, AAS services focus on network connectivity: each element of the factory will be associated with an AAS that includes modules capable of interacting with technologies through the OT (Operational Technology) network and exposing management services through the IT (Information Technology) network.

The IGNITE project addresses the challenge of equipping production line components with new communication capabilities, opening up Operational Technology (OT) networks to Information Technology (IT) networks and the Internet.

The project is divided into three phases:

• analysis of the main types of connectivity used at an industrial level and their requirements for future developments, including technologies currently under development;
• design and development of a prototype AAS in a laboratory environment capable of autonomously managing connectivity with the identified technologies;
• implementation of the prototype in order to test the AAS and refine its operation and characteristics based on real usage patterns applied to an industrial plant emulator.

The prototype of the management platform and AAS will be implemented through a testbed that replicates the characteristics of an industrial environment. This testbed will be set up at a laboratory belonging to one of the project partners. In addition, the specifications of the AAS interfaces will be made available to enable remote control and connectivity management in the industrial environment. The testbed will be trialled on significant business use cases identified during the project activities.

To find out more: www.ignite5-project.eu

The Ignite 5.0 project represents a significant evolutionary leap for companies, thanks to the advanced interaction of systems and the implementation of a Digital Twin system. Ignite 5.0 is also useful from a cybersecurity perspective: the project emphasises IT security, strengthening the control and surveillance of information systems for greater protection against threats.

Partnership

• AIRI – Artificial Intelligence Research and Innovation Centre – University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Lead Partner)
• CIRI ICT – Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna
• MechLav Laboratory – University of Ferrara
• Romagna Tech S.C.p.A.

Industrial partnership

• Bonfiglioli S.p.A.
• Stoorm5 Ltd.
• VEM Sistemi Ltd.