ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the reader to the FAR-EDGE Reference Architecture (RA): the conceptual framework that, in the scope of the FAR-EDGE project, was used as the blueprint for the proof-of-concept implementation of a novel edge computing platform for factory automation : the FAR-EDGE Platform. FAR-EDGE’s main goal is to provide a novel edge computing solution for the virtualization of the factory automation pyramid. The idea of decentralizing factory automation is not new. Its value is mainly in communication: lowering the impedance of information flow within the development team and possibly also towards the general public. RAMI 4.0 has gained a significant traction in Germany and is also driving the discussion around Industry 4.0 solutions and platforms in Europe. The implementation viewpoint indeed provides some very relevant building blocks for the FAR-EDGE platform. The FAR-EDGE Automation domain includes functionalities supporting automated control and automated configuration of physical production processes.
