Distributed Control System (DCS) network architecture for a shipboard Machinery Control System (MCS)

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Distributed Control System (DCS) network architecture for a shipboard Machinery Control System (MCS)

Nelson, H.W.

This paper describes the network technologies that could be used in a Distributed Control System (DCS) architecture. Each device in an ideal DCS will have an embedded processor with a network interface, and appear as a node on the network. Therefore, the intelligence to make control decisions would be contained within the device. The nodes will communicate in a peer-to-peer fashion, reducing the need for centralized control while reducing the manpower required to operate and maintain the system through increased automation. A comparison of the different types of control system networks (Ethernet, Profibus, ControlNet, DeviceNet, Foundation FieldBus, Lonworks, Wireless, etc.) will be shown. Different DCS network architectures will be presented that would best be suited for a shipboard Machinery Control System (MCS) that can be implemented for a new design, or backfit into an existing system. The system would take full advantage of an open system architecture using industrial standard interfaces, protocols, and network variables to create a "plug and play" environment when components need to be replaced for obsolescence, for system upgrades, or enhancements.