iSOC / iSOC-S

Software Framework

The iSOC software framework is a web service that can run on an embedded controller, PC or enterprise system. This universal management tool for LON, Modbus and other fieldbuses, as well as optional support for BACnet, M-Bus and KNX, enables the commissioning and control of various systems and devices, whether wired or wireless. This makes it possible to install devices from different manufacturers using different protocols and to combine them in a simple, intuitive way.

The software framework has an integrated web HMI tool and a customisable web interface compliant with the HTML5 standard. HTML5 is supported by all major browsers worldwide. HMI interfaces created using this tool are:

• platform-independent
• high performance
• very easy to develop
• intuitive to use
• expandable at any time
• future-proof

Protocol-independent automation objects are created for:

• Alarms (display and management)
• Trends (display and comparison)
• Time control / calendar
• Logic programming according to IEC 61131
• Gateway functions (including data conversion)

The iSOC enables any type of visualisation or SCADA system to be connected via JSON/REST, OPC UA, SOAP, XML or BACnet. Using the certified iCiti TALQ app (Ref. No. 200114) , the iSOC and iSOC-S edge controllers become fully-fledged TALQ gateways in accordance with version 2.7.0 and, as genuine embedded TALQ gateways, seamlessly connect existing LON networks – both via powerline in accordance with EN 14908-3 and via modern wireless mesh technology – to TALQ-compatible CMS systems.

The distributed IT architecture of the connected servers can be accessed at any time via the web service. The web service can be hosted on any server under Windows, Android or Linux.

Terminal Assignment iSOC

Terminal Assignment iSOC-S

Intelligent Edge Controllers / Smart City Servers (iSOC & iSOC-S)

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1. Brief description

Intelligent, DIN-rail-mountable edge controller (segment controller) with a universal software framework (“Open City”) for vendor-neutral control and networking of smart city, lighting and building automation applications. The system serves as an open, TALQ-certified gateway for the seamless integration of wired (e.g. LON, Modbus, BACnet) and wireless fieldbus systems into higher-level control systems (CMS/SCADA).

2. Detailed description (system description)

Configuration of a future-proof, open control system for urban and industrial infrastructure (e.g. smart street lighting, car park management, sports ground and site lighting, and building-related automation).

The system is based on a high-performance, Linux-based hardware platform (available in either standard or slim versions), which is integrated directly into the control cabinet as an intelligent edge controller. At its heart is a universal software framework that operates as a platform-independent web service. It enables cross-vendor data conversion and logic programming in accordance with IEC 61131, allowing different protocols (LON, Modbus, BACnet, M-Bus, KNX) to be combined on a single platform.

By using an optional, certified TALQ app (version 2.7.0), the controllers are transformed into fully-fledged embedded TALQ gateways. These seamlessly connect existing networks – via both powerline (EN 14908-3) and modern wireless mesh technologies – to TALQ-compatible central management systems. Operators thus benefit from maximum interoperability, simplified system integration and complete freedom of choice when selecting management systems and device manufacturers. IT security is ensured by state-of-the-art, integrated, encrypted OpenVPN clients (TLS/SSL).

3. Technical Specifications (Specification Items)

Item 1: High-level System Description & Software Framework

Technical Specification
Intelligent edge controller and universal management tool for smart city and building automation applications. The system is designed as an open platform (‘Open City’) and enables the seamless, cross-vendor integration of networks based on EN 14908-1 (LON) into the cloud using various state-of-the-art technologies.

Software framework: 

• Integrated, platform-independent, Linux-based web service for the manufacturer-independent combination of protocols (at least LON, Modbus; optionally BACnet, M-Bus, KNX).
• Web HMI & visualisation:
  Integrated HTML5-based web interface tool for platform-independent operation. Open interfaces for connection to higher-level SCADA or visualisation systems via JSON/REST, OPC UA, SOAP, XML or BACnet.
• Automation functions:
  Protocol-independent objects for alarm and trend management, timers with an astronomical calendar, I/O converters, data loggers and free logic programming in accordance with IEC 61131.
• Security:
  Integrated OpenVPN client for secure, encrypted integration into virtual networks via TLS/SSL connections.

Item 2: Functional requirements / Device software functions

The edge controllers on offer must, as standard, have the following integrated core software functions in order to carry out autonomous control, monitoring and communication tasks directly at field level:

• Precise time and sequence control:
  Integrated real-time clock (RTC) with sufficient power reserve and an astronomical calendar for control based on time of day and location (e.g. for lighting systems). Automated scheduling and triggering of recurring control tasks must be ensured. Time synchronisation must be optionally achievable via an SNTP (Simple Network Time Protocol) server.
• Process data logging and monitoring:
  Integrated data logger for the continuous collection, recording and monitoring of process data from connected field devices and lighting controllers (Outdoor Light Controller / OLC).
• Message and alarm management:
  Continuous process monitoring with the ability to trigger automated actions when defined thresholds are exceeded or specific system conditions are met. The system must have an integrated email client to send predefined status or alarm information directly and autonomously.
• Signal processing (I/O converter):
  Software-based conversion of digital input signals into standardised process data, as well as the reverse conversion for controlling digital outputs.
• Operating system and programmability:
  A flexibly programmable, updatable and specially adapted Linux operating system that supports automated firmware updates.
• Security and network integration:
  Integrated OpenVPN client for the secure, encrypted and seamless integration of the device into a virtual private network (VPN) via highly secure TLS/SSL connections.

Item 3.1: Alternative Item A – Edge Controller Type: iSOC

Technical Specifications
Electronic edge controller in a DIN rail housing for complex control tasks and direct interface management.

• Hardware Basis:
  Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM3+, Broadcom quad-core 64-bit SoC, 1.2 GHz.
• Memory:
  1 GB RAM, 32 GB eMMC flash memory.
• On-board interfaces:
  1x HDMI V1.3a, 4x USB 2.0 A (500 mA each), 2x Ethernet (RJ45) 10/100 Mbit/s, 1x RS-485 (isolated, terminatable), 1x RS-232/RS-485 (isolated, terminatable).
• System bus:
  Integrated DIN-rail system bus for direct, tool-free daisy-chaining of LON interfaces and I/O modules on the DIN rail.
• Expandability:
  Optional implementation of narrowband/broadband powerline (in accordance with CENELEC 50065-1, primary/secondary band) or ISM radio via additional hardware.
• Data transfer & standards:
  EN 14908-1, -4; prepared for EN 14908-2 (TP/FT-10) and EN 14908-3 (powerline) via an additional interface. LonMark®-compatible.
• Housing & mounting:
  Flush-mounted housing in accordance with DIN 43880, polycarbonate plastic (flammability class V0 according to UL 94), protection rating IP20. Mounting on 35 mm mounting rail (DIN EN 50022).
• Dimensions / Space requirements:
  108 x 89.7 x 62.2 mm (6 TE on top-hat rail).
• Environmental conditions:
  Operating temperature range from -40 to +55 °C.
• Power supply:
  12–30 V DC, power consumption: Ø 10 W / max. 20 W.
• Certifications:
  IEC 61000-6-2, EN 55032, EN 55024. Automated firmware updates are supported.
• Warranty:
  2 years.
• Brand:
  iCiti iSOC (Ref. No.: 200078) or equivalent.

Item 3.2: Alternative option B – Edge controller type: iSOC-S

Technical specifications
High-performance electronic edge controller in an ultra-compact housing for space-constrained applications on DIN rails.

• Hardware basis:
  Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM4, Broadcom quad-core 64-bit SoC, 1.5 GHz.
• Memory:
  2 GB RAM, 8 GB eMMC flash memory.
• On-board interfaces:
  2x USB 3.0 A (900 mA each), 2x Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45) 10/100/1000 Mbit/s, 1x RS-485 (isolated, terminatable).
• Expandability:
  Optional implementation of narrowband/broadband powerline (in accordance with CENELEC 50065-1) or ISM radio via additional hardware.
• Data transfer & standards:
  EN 14908-1, -4; prepared for EN 14908-2 (TP/FT-10) and EN 14908-3 (powerline) via an additional interface. LonMark®-compatible
• Housing & mounting:
  Flush-mounted installation housing in accordance with DIN 43880, polycarbonate plastic (flammability class V0 according to UL 94), protection class IP20. Mounting on 35 mm mounting rail (DIN EN 50022).
• Dimensions / Space requirements:
  25 x 100 x 108.35 mm (1 part unit [TE] on top-hat rail).
• Environmental conditions:
  Operating temperature range from -20 to +55 °C.
• Power supply:
  12–30 V DC, power consumption: max. 15 W (excluding USB 3.0 load currents).
• Certifications:
  IEC 61000-6-2, EN 55032, EN 55024. Automated firmware updates are supported.
• Warranty:
  2 years.
• Brand:
  iCiti iSOC-S (Ref. No.: 200116) or equivalent.

Item 4: Optional accessories – Certified TALQ interface app

Technical specifications
Certified software application for upgrading the Edge Controllers (iSOC / iSOC-S) to a fully-fledged, vendor-independent smart city gateway.

• Protocol standard:
  TALQ certification in accordance with version 2.7.0.
• Function:
  Functions as an embedded TALQ gateway, which seamlessly and interoperably connects existing fieldbus and lighting networks (LON networks via powerline in accordance with EN 14908-3 or wireless mesh technology) to any TALQ-compliant Central Management System (CMS). Ensures complete freedom of choice regarding CMS and device manufacturers by complying with the open standard.
• Brand:
  iCiti-TALQ app (Ref. No.: 200114) or equivalent.