Analysis of Real-Time Execution Models for Container-Based Control Applications

Abstract

Software-defined Manufacturing (SDM) aims to enhance the flexibility of production systems. Classical automation systems are not a suitable technological basis for SDM. While their hierarchical, rigid structures are increasingly being dissolved. Container-based virtualization, and modular software architectures, gain traction in automation systems. However, today’s PLCs are not a perfect fit for virtualization, as the control program still is a monolithic piece of software. We analyze cyclic and event-based real-time scheduling models for modular PLCs. Furthermore, techniques for reconfiguration at runtime are developed based on the selected execution models.