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IP sensor conforms to the IEEE1451 standard design
The integration of computer network technology with intelligent sensor technology has, for the first time, introduced a new concept: networked smart sensors. These sensors can function as independent nodes on a network, transmitting, distributing, and sharing data directly—just like other network devices. This advancement allows for on-site programming and configuration of field sensors from any node on the network, offering unprecedented flexibility and control.
This synergy has significantly advanced sensor technology and the broader process of digitalization. The adoption of fieldbus technology has driven sensors toward greater intelligence and connectivity. At the measurement and control level of automation systems, numerous intelligent sensors are linked via fieldbus to form distributed, networked measurement and control systems. However, due to historical reasons, there is no globally accepted fieldbus standard. Protocols such as Profibus, FF, Lonworks, HART, and CAN remain incompatible, limiting interoperability and making system expansion and maintenance challenging. As a result, it is difficult to ensure that sensors meet all required protocols, which hinders their widespread industrial use.
To address these challenges, the industry urgently needs a universally accepted sensor interface standard that supports broad application and seamless integration. One such solution is the IEEE 1451 standard, introduced in 1994 by IEEE and NIST. This standard, including IEEE 1451.1 and IEEE 1451.2, was adopted in 1997 and 1999 respectively. It defines a standardized interface for smart sensors, enabling them to communicate over networks using a common protocol. The standard includes the Smart Transducer Interface Module (STIM), which connects analog signals to digital formats, along with the Transducer Electronic Data Sheet (TEDS) that stores critical sensor information. This enables self-description, calibration, and network compatibility.
Despite its benefits, the IEEE 1451 standard has faced limited adoption due to several challenges. First, the lack of unified network protocols makes it difficult to implement across different bus technologies. Second, the TII interface used in IEEE 1451.2 is not well-suited for high-speed applications. Third, the Network Capable Application Processor (NCAP) is complex and costly to implement. In contrast, STIM, being simpler and more cost-effective, has gained popularity among users and helped shift the focus from proprietary buses to Ethernet-based solutions.
As silicon microelectronics advanced, it became possible to integrate complex functions into a single chip, reducing costs and improving connectivity. This development paved the way for IP sensors—networked smart sensors that combine embedded Internet technology with standard TCP/IP protocols. IP sensors operate as independent network nodes, allowing real-time data sharing and remote management through web interfaces.
An IP sensor typically consists of two main components: the Smart Transducer Interface Module (STIM) and the Network Protocol Processing Module (NPPM). The STIM handles sensor data acquisition and conversion, while the NPPM manages TCP/IP communication. By eliminating the complex TII interface, IP sensors simplify design and reduce costs. They also support "plug-and-play" functionality, allowing dynamic integration into existing systems without altering the network structure.
IP sensors offer several advantages. They leverage the widely used TCP/IP protocol, enabling low-cost data transmission over the Internet. Their open architecture supports easy configuration and scalability, making them ideal for distributed measurement and control systems. Moreover, they can be deployed on enterprise LANs or even the public Internet, offering flexible and robust connectivity.
In networked systems, IP sensor performance is influenced by network delay, which includes communication delay, disturbance delay, and execution delay. While network load significantly affects this delay, improvements in switched Ethernet and higher transmission speeds have mitigated many issues. Testing using ICMP protocols helps evaluate network performance, with round-trip time (RTT) serving as an indicator of overall delay.
Looking ahead, the 21st century marks the era of the embedded Internet. Experts predict that the number of embedded devices will grow rapidly, with 70% of next-generation network devices being embedded. Connecting these devices to the Internet offers immense potential for global data access and real-time monitoring. IP sensors, as key components of this vision, are set to play a central role in the future of smart, connected systems.