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R-Fieldbus D1.3 - General System Architecture of the RFieldbus
Ref: HURRAY-TR-0016       Publication Date: 1, Aug, 2000

Abstract:
This document describes the general system architecture of the RFieldbus, especially taking into account time critical applications. Deduced from the requirements already formulated in D1.1, from the radio technology assessment and selection as described in D1.2 and from the multi-media assessment the following technology platforms have been chosen for the RFieldbus:· EN 50170 V2 (PROFIBUS) as the communication platform; · 2,4 GHz Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum Radio Physical Layer as the radio platform; · Higher Lavel Internet Protocols (incl. TCP/ IP) as the multi-media platform. Taking into account these decisions and the results of the assessment of known mobility protocols, some basic assumptions for the RFieldbus system regarding a specific mobility solution are presented. Additionally, several radio functions are described, which later will be subject of the protocol extensions. Besides the RFieldbus Master and Slave Stations, which comprise the standard application and the communication functionality of the PROFIBUS, three additional RFieldbus elements are defined : · A RFieldbus Link Station enables wireless nodes to be connected to a wired PROFIBUS segment; · A RFieldbus Base Station offers a maximum radio coverage and improves reliability; · A RFieldbus Link Base Station combines the characteristics of a Link Station and a Base Station,as a prerequisite for inter cell mobility (multi-cell connectivity). The Direct Link Network is defined as the basic RFieldbus network topology, aimed at time-critical applications without inter-cell mobility. A Relay Link Network (using Base Stations and/or Link Base Stations) allows inter-cell mobility and produces a radio coverage suitable for larger areas. In order to fulfil different security requirements, encryption algorithms may be implemented according to three Security Levels. The RFieldbus System and Network Management is based on a object-oriented management model using a Management Information Base. The RFieldbus Protocol Architecture includes also support of multi-media applications.

Filipe Pacheco