Overview
IEC 61915-1:2007 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that focuses on low-voltage switchgear and controlgear, specifically addressing device profiles for networked industrial devices. Part 1 of this series establishes general rules for the development of device profiles to enhance the interoperability of industrial devices, network tools, and application software across various platforms and communication networks.
This standard provides a framework for the common representation of networked industrial devices and defines a template for documenting these profiles. Importantly, IEC 61915-1:2007 is independent of the network type used, thus promoting versatile implementation in diverse industrial automation environments.
Key Topics
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Device Profile Framework
The standard introduces a structured framework for creating device profiles which formalize descriptions of industrial devices for networking purposes. This framework is compatible with guidelines from IEC/TR 62390 and integrates concepts from ISO 15745 to ensure openness and standardization in industrial automation.
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Root Device Profiles
Root device profiles serve as fundamental templates that define general device characteristics, parameter definitions, functional elements, state models, and services. These provide a baseline for manufacturers to build upon or customize.
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Manufacturer’s Device Profiles
Manufacturers can either base their custom device profiles on existing root profiles or create profiles independently. The document details the rules for both approaches including headers, parameters, complex data types, parameter assemblies, and services.
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Parameter and Data Type Definitions
IEC 61915-1 comprehensively describes mandatory and optional elements such as parameter names, data types, units, access rights, ranges, and the structure of complex data types including arrays, enumerations, and structured types.
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Profile Relationships and Compatibility
The standard addresses how profiles relate to each other to maintain compatibility and facilitate communication between devices from different manufacturers or models within automated systems.
Applications
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Industrial Automation
Facilitates seamless integration of low-voltage switchgear and controlgear with networked industrial systems, ensuring devices can communicate efficiently across diverse industrial networks.
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Device Interoperability
By standardizing how device information is represented and exchanged, IEC 61915-1 supports interoperable industrial devices improving flexibility and reducing integration time and cost.
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Network Tools and Software Development
Provides a clear, standardized template that network tool developers and software engineers can implement to ensure consistent interpretation of device capabilities and services.
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Manufacturing and Process Control
Enables consistent device identification, monitoring, control, and diagnostics in smart factories and automated processes.
Related Standards
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IEC/TR 62390 – Common Automation Device Profile Guideline
Supports and complements IEC 61915-1 by offering principles for device profile development in automation environments.
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ISO 15745 – Industrial Automation Systems and Integration – Open Systems Application Integration Framework
Related to the open integration paradigms adopted within IEC 61915-1 for device network profiles.
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IEC 61915 Series – Device profiles for networked industrial devices
This part 1 standard serves as the foundational document for subsequent parts of the IEC 61915 series, which address more specific device profile aspects.
Keywords: IEC 61915-1, device profiles, low-voltage switchgear, controlgear, industrial automation, networked industrial devices, interoperability, IEC standards, manufacturer device profiles, root device profiles, industrial networks, automation systems integration.