ILS signs Mitsubishi; seeks other device makers to adopt its means to enterprise connectivity

The importance of real-time data to business systems has led to various approaches to achieving bidirectional data connectivity between the plant floor and the enterprise. ILS Technology, with the release of the deviceWISE 2.0 connectivity platform, suggests one good way to achieve integration is to install its software “framework” right in a PLC, RFID reader, or other intelligent device.

ILS' aim is to have device and instrument vendors adopt ILS technology in their hardware. And in fact, ILS just announced an agreement with Mitsubishi Electric whereby the automation vendor will use deviceWISE 2.0 to “expand the functionality of its Q Series PLCs in the areas of database connectivity, service-oriented architecture connectivity, and configuration management.”

The framework allows users to process data and send it to external databases, message and queuing systems such as IBM WebSphere and BEA, and email servers. It also supports rapid adoption of the OPC XML/DA specification while laying the groundwork for the emerging OPC Unified Architecture.

“ILS Technology has developed an impressive technology portfolio,” says Satoshi Takeda, manager, controller section, Mitsubishi Electric. “Such systems could greatly improve inventory management programs and in-process production decisions for a variety of enterprises.”

The deviceWISE 2.0 platform minimizes dependency on intermediate PC technology, decreasing installation and maintenance costs, enhancing security, and reducing long system-integration cycles.

Asked if the eventual goal of ILS' management is that it be acquired by an automation vendor, Joseph Cestari, president and CEO, replies, “We want to remain vendor-neutral. It wouldn't make sense given what we're trying to achieve—or be good for our other partners—to be acquired.”