Integration of fieldbus systems into distributed object-oriented systems

We describe an approach for integrating fieldbus systems into distributed object oriented systems. Integration of fieldbus systems into distributed object oriented systems means to treat the first one as an integral part of the last one. This integration has a methodological and a technical viewpoint. The first is related to the integration of models describing the application and its management, while the latter is related to the realisation of an interface in software (and hardware) between two worlds of information processing. The paper describes the last aspect. The integration of fieldbus systems into distributed systems gains importance for the realisation of heterogeneous information processing systems in companies. Using this approach, online data from and about a process is available in various departments of the company and can be used for decision making. First we explain the need and possibility for this integration, and the technologies and models used, are described. Next, an application example is described. Finally, some conclusions and areas of necessary further research work are shown.