Industry 4.0 Middleware Software Architecture Interoperability Analysis

Industry 4.0 (I4.0) middleware interoperability plays a central role in the intelligent networking of machines and processes supporting flexible I4.0 production. Interoperability levels in middleware software architecture, in relation to intelligent networking, are described to a lesser extend. This paper aims to analyze the implications of multiple levels of interoperability in middleware software architecture. The Levels of Conceptual Interoperability Model is used together with prior interoperability analysis and laboratory experience as the basis for analyzing the interoperability level implications in relation to middleware software architecture. Components of an evolving software architecture are proposed and discussed together with scenarios supporting multiple interoperability levels in I4.0 middleware.