Companies must often integrate data from their wireless system to their SCADA system. LoRaWAN® is ideal for wireless data streams, but the LoRaWAN® server does not directly connect to the PLC.
VoBoBridge solves this by bridging LoRaWAN® data with a PLC. This enables a streamlined connection between LoRaWAN® endpoints and SCADA systems, which checks and provides higher-level control functions. In this article, we will explore how this works and see the benefits of using VoBoBridge with your PLCs.
What is VoBoBridge?
VoBoBridge is a proprietary software module from Volley Boast that integrates with a LoRaWAN® gateway. It allows sensor data transmitted by a VoBo endpoint over LoRaWAN® to be accessed by a PLC through Modbus® TCP.
This removes the need for a LoRaWAN® server on the network and provides the data the PLC needs to perform its actions. The integration combines the long-range, low-power, sensor-agnostic benefits of VoBo endpoints and LoRaWAN® with the widely used Modbus® TCP protocol, providing a robust and efficient industrial solution for PLC communications.
Key VoBoBridge Features
- Bridges LoRaWAN® and Modbus® TCP – Enables a PLC to receive sensor data wirelessly.
- Simple System Architecture – Minimal components for ease of deployment.
- No Internet or LoRaWAN® Network Server Required – Enhances security and reliability.
- High Security – Protects against outside threats by working independently from the internet.
- Supports up to 80 VoBo Endpoints – Suitable for large-scale industrial applications.
- Compatible with all VoBo Models and Data Payloads – Ensures flexibility across different industrial setups.
- Downlink Support – Enables remote configuration and control of VoBo endpoints.
- LoRaWAN® Compliant Gateway – Supports US915 and other channel plans.
- VoBoSync Support – Ensures synchronized data transfer across endpoints.
How VoBoBridge Works
When a VoBo payload is received at the LoRaWAN® gateway, rather than moving the data to a LoRaWAN® server, it is streamed to the VoBoBridge. The payload is decoded and stored in designated Modbus® registers, making it accessible to a PLC. This eliminates the need for a LoRaWAN® Network Server or internet access, ensuring a secure, isolated system for industrial applications.
The sensors, VoBo, and LoRaWAN® gateway comprise the LoRaWAN® system, while the VoBoBridge and PLC comprise the Modbus® TCP system.
Why the PLC Needs a VoBoBridge
A PLC polls, or checks, for data to perform its functions. The PLC can poll the system actively or at regular intervals.
Once the PLC receives the status or data it needs, it can perform a function based on that information. This allows the PLC to make decisions such as adjusting temperature and pressure, stopping or starting a device, etc. This is useful anywhere a PLC is needed, such as in manufacturing and industrial environments.
Data streams in a LoRaWAN® network are not commonly connected to a SCADA system, but the data collected with LoRaWAN® can be useful with SCADA.
The VoBoBridge is the connecting point between LoRaWAN® and the PLC.
Benefits of VoBoBridge
There are many benefits of using a VoBoBridge with your SCADA system. Here’s a look at several of them.
SCADA and LoRaWAN® are a Powerful Combination
SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems are designed for large-scale industrial operations that require data collection and two-way communication. They rely on PLCs to control processes.
LoRaWAN® is a cost-effective and scalable technology for monitoring equipment remotely. It isn’t used for real-time control, but it works well with SCADA by offering an efficient way to gather data from remote sensors.
Seamless SCADA Integration with VoBoBridge
SCADA and LoRaWAN® often work side by side in industrial settings. A VoBoBridge creates a link between the two without requiring infrastructure changes. By integrating LoRaWAN® sensor data into SCADA systems, a VoBoBridge allows industries to improve their monitoring and control capabilities.
SCADA systems collect and display data from field devices through PLCs. This is done using the Modbus® protocol for communication. A VoBoBridge translates the LoRaWAN® sensor data into a Modbus®-compatible format. This ensures seamless communication between the remote sensors and SCADA and makes the VoBoBridge an essential tool for industries that require data from remote sensors to use with PLCs.
How It Works
- SCADA Functionality – SCADA systems gather data from the sensors and devices in the plant through PLCs. The system displays critical information for operators to check and make needed adjustments.
- Modbus® and PLC Integration – Modbus® is a standard protocol for industrial communication. Most industrial devices, including PLCs, use the Modbus® protocol.
- VoBoBridge’s Role – The VoBoBridge converts sensor data from LoRaWAN® networks into Modbus®-compatible data, ensuring a smooth integration with SCADA systems. The VoBoBridge updates the Modbus® registers when the gateway receives new data from the VoBo endpoint.
Key Benefits of VoBoBridge for SCADA Systems
- Remote Data Gathering – A VoBoBridge enables SCADA systems to receive data from remote sensors. The VoBo provides the data at regular intervals.
- Improved Operating Efficiency – Remote data helps industries improve operations, reduce downtime, reduce risk, and improve processes.
- Wide Range of Industries – The VoBoBridge is an essential tool for industries that depend on PLCs and Modbus®, including oil and gas, chemicals, manufacturing, energy, water treatment, and more.
Why It Matters
- Better Process Control – Remote data available on SCADA interfaces allows operators to make adjustments from a distance.
- Better Decision-Making – Accessing system-wide data allows the operators to identify problems early and prevent disruptions.
Cost-Effective
Wired sensor networks can be expensive to install and maintain. This is especially true in large industrial settings where wiring is expensive. A VoBoBridge with VoBos allows for using LoRaWAN® with Modbus® TCP, greatly reducing costs.
Scalable
Industries need solutions that can scale with them as they grow. Supporting up to 80 VoBo endpoints per VoBoBridge gateway, VoBoBridge was designed for scalability. This makes it ideal for expanding operations without investing in more infrastructure.
Reliable and Secure
The VoBoBridge operates independently from the internet, eliminating vulnerabilities that can come with cloud-based systems. The direct LoRaWAN®-to-Modbus® TCP integration doesn’t connect to the internet, so those vulnerabilities are not an issue. This ensures that data is secure and reliable, making it ideal for industries with strict cybersecurity requirements.
Enhanced Monitoring and Control
VoBoBridge allows industries to use sensor-agnostic VoBo LoRaWAN® endpoints for a wide range of applications, including environmental monitoring, equipment monitoring, and predictive maintenance. The ability to send remote data to PLCs helps improve process efficiency and reduce downtime.
Why Choose VoBoBridge?
The VoBoBridge is the ideal solution for integrating LoRaWAN® data into SCADA systems without needing additional servers or the internet. By providing a direct and secure bridge between VoBo endpoints and PLCs, it helps make industrial automation cost-effective and scalable.
Industries such as oil and gas, water treatment, manufacturing, and energy production can benefit from the VoBoBridge’s ability to connect remote sensors to their PLCs.
For more information, visit VolleyBoast.com or contact info@volleyboast.com.