Communication model of embedded multi-protocol gateway for MRO online monitoring system

Communication technologies, involving fieldbus network, Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) and industrial Ethernet, are mainly applied to complex industrial applications like continuous casting field, in order to transmit information. However, there're still some shortcomings exposed and certain higher requirements such as compatibility, expansibility, and transmission distance and speed have been put forward. Accordingly, this paper proposed a design scheme of embedded multi-protocol gateway with wire and wireless communication methods integrated. A communication model of embedded multi-protocol gateway is established, taking example by the principle of protocol conversion and the architecture of heterogeneous network integration based on Open System Interconnection Reference Model (OSI/RM). In addition, the intercommunication of such a network combining WSN, CAN bus, 3G network, WLAN, and Ethernet is realized, taking data heterogeneous and command message conflicting into consideration. Moreover, the use of modular and hierarchical design method made it possible for subnet communication interface to expand to different monitoring equipment and data acquisition equipment. The proposed model provides solution of heterogeneous network integration and real-time data service of high speed and wide coverage for the MRO online monitoring system.